Whether your kiddo is just dipping their toes into ballet or already belting show tunes like a Broadway star, Outschool offers live, online performing arts classes for kids that are fun, flexible, and full of personality. And here’s the best part: you can save up to $30 on your first class using my personal code MSALLIE20—and it works for any class on the platform, not just mine!

As a theater teacher on Outschool and a parent to a young dancer, I’ve seen how powerful these classes can be. They build confidence, spark creativity, and create connections—all from the comfort of home.

Let’s dive into why our family loves it and why yours just might, too.

Outschool: A Creative Playground for Kids

Outschool is an online learning platform offering live Zoom classes for kids ages 3–18. It’s packed with engaging, small-group lessons taught by passionate educators in everything from acting and singing to coding, cooking, and creative writing.

The performing arts classes are especially magical. Whether your child wants to try ballet, drama, improv, tap, musical theater, or vocal training, they can explore it all without needing to commit to a full year of lessons or drive to a studio.

Classes are incredibly flexible and low-pressure. That means kids can test the waters without the commitment of a long-term program, or they can go all in with weekly rehearsals and performance-based courses. It’s all about what works best for your child.

And it’s not just for the extroverts. If your child is a little nervous to perform in front of a crowd, online classes can feel safer and more accessible. They can build skills and confidence at their own pace—with lots of encouragement along the way.

My Life as a Theater Teacher on Outschool

As a lifelong theater lover and professional actress, teaching acting classes on Outschool has been a dream come true. I work with kids from all over the world, helping them explore everything from improv games and monologues to scene study and character work.

What I love most? The joy kids bring to class. They show up excited, ready to play, and totally open to trying something new. I’ve seen shy students blossom into bold performers and outgoing kids discover the power of listening and ensemble work.

The small class sizes mean every student gets personal feedback and real time to shine. It’s a creative, supportive space where kids aren’t afraid to be silly, expressive, and themselves.

My Daughter’s Ballet and Music Journey on Outschool

As a parent, I’ve also experienced Outschool from the other side—watching my daughter thrive in her online ballet and music classes.

When she wanted to try ballet, she struggled with being comfortable in front of a group trying out a new skill. Enter Outschool. We signed up for a beginner ballet class with a wonderful teacher, and it was love at first plié. She twirled, stretched, and beamed with pride—all from our living room.

We’ve also taken music classes together, from singing to rhythm games and basic piano. These classes are fun, interactive, and taught by experienced musicians who know how to keep kids engaged.

Outschool has made it easy for us to try new things without pressure. If my daughter wants to explore jazz dance next week or ukulele next month, we can find a class that fits our schedule and her curiosity.

Creative Confidence Starts Here

What sets Outschool apart from other platforms is the energy. These aren’t pre-recorded videos or boring lectures (although self-paced options are available as well). They’re interactive, live classes led by real teachers who love what they do.

For performing arts, that energy is everything. Kids don’t just watch—they perform, participate, and connect. They collaborate on scenes, cheer each other on, and build confidence in a space that feels fun and safe.

And because Outschool classes are global, kids meet peers from around the world. It’s not just a class—it’s a community.

Want to Try It? Here’s How to Save

If you’re ready to give online performing arts classes for kids a try, there’s never been a better time.

Use my personal code MSALLIE20 to save up to $30 off your first Outschool class—and yes, this discount works for any class on the platform, not just mine. Whether your child wants to try theater, dance, coding, art, or even dinosaurs, this code gives you a risk-free way to explore.

? Click here to browse performing arts classes on Outschool

My Teacher Profile

Check out the Ballet Class my daughter loved!

The Final Bow

Performing arts classes on Outschool have opened up a world of possibility for my family—and I’d love for yours to experience the same joy. Whether your child is a future star or just wants to try something new, there’s a class out there that’s just right for them.

Try it. Let your child explore. And don’t forget to use MSALLIE20 to make your first class even sweeter.

Lights, camera, confidence—it all starts with just one click.

The post Why We Love Performing Arts Classes on Outschool appeared first on The Little Performer.

What Is Stage Fright (or Performance Anxiety) and Why Does It Happen?

Stage fright is basically your brain going, “Whoa, everyone’s looking at me!” It’s like your body gets confused and thinks you’re about to face a lion instead of an audience. Cue the sweaty palms, shaky knees, and racing heart. Sound familiar?

Here’s the thing: feeling nervous means you care. That’s awesome! It’s proof that you’re ready to give it your all. Instead of fighting those feelings, let’s use them to our advantage and turn that nervous energy into a stellar performance.

Try This:

• When your tummy’s doing flips, tell yourself, “I’m excited!” This simple shift in perspective can help calm your nerves.
• Visualize yourself succeeding on stage—the audience clapping, big smiles all around, and you feeling like a star.

Turning Performance Nerves Into Confidence

Here’s the secret: the more you practice, the less scary it feels. When you know your material like the back of your hand, stage fright doesn’t stand a chance. Think of it like riding a bike—the more you do it, the less wobbly you are.

How to Prep Like a Pro:

1. Rehearse, Rehearse, Rehearse: Practice your lines, moves, or songs until they become second nature. Bonus points if you mix it up by practicing in different rooms or even outside.
2. Family Audience Time: Got a pet? A stuffed animal? A very patient sibling? Perform for them! It’s great practice and will make the real audience feel less intimidating.
3. Chunk It Down: Break your performance into smaller sections and focus on one part at a time.
4. Speed Racer: Know your lines well enough that you can speed through them. This assures your mind that you know what is coming even if you draw a blank.

Pro Tip:

Record yourself on your phone. Watching it back might feel a little awkward, but you’ll see how much progress you’re making—and catch anything you want to improve.

How to Handle Stage Fright Like a Pro

When you feel like a bundle of nerves, it’s time to take a deep, calming breath. Breathing is like magic for your brain. It tells your body, “Hey, we’ve got this.”

Easy Breathing Hack:

1. Breathe in through your nose for four counts.
2. Hold it for four counts.
3. Blow it out slooooowly through your mouth for six counts.
4. Repeat until you feel calm and focused.

Another trick? Shake out your hands or bounce in place to release extra jittery energy. Movement can work wonders for calming stage nerves

The Audience Is on Your Side

Remember, the audience isn’t there to critique you like a reality show judge. They’re rooting for you! They’re excited to see you shine, whether you’re singing, acting, or doing an epic robot dance.

Mindset Shift with Stage Fright:

• Swap “What if I mess up?” for “I’m going to have fun!”
• Look for friendly faces—a smiling parent, a kind friend, or even a giggling little sibling.

Quick Confidence Boosts:

• Wear an outfit that makes you feel fabulous.
• Give yourself a pep talk in the mirror. Positive self-talk goes a long way.

Oops? No Big Deal!

Nobody’s perfect, and that’s what makes live performances so exciting. If something goes off-script, roll with it. A quick recovery can turn a “mistake” into a memorable moment that everyone loves.

How to Handle It:

• Keep going like it was part of the plan.
• Laugh it off if it’s funny. The audience will appreciate your sense of humor.
• Use it as a chance to learn for next time. Every performance is a stepping stone to becoming better.

Celebrate Your Courage—Overcoming Stage Fright

After the show, take a moment to celebrate your achievement. Whether it went perfectly or not, you did something brave and amazing. High-five yourself, your family, or your friends for putting yourself out there.

Questions to Reflect On:

• What did I totally crush?
• What could I tweak a little?
• How did I handle my nerves? (Hint: If you got on stage, you’re already winning!)

Celebrate Your Courage with Performance Anxiety:

Even if you stumbled, you showed up, and that’s huge. Reward yourself with something you enjoy—ice cream, a movie night, or even just some quiet time to relax.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!

Stage fright might feel big and scary, but it’s no match for your courage, preparation, and determination. With a little practice, some deep breaths, and a lot of self-belief, you’ll turn those jitters into pure stage magic.

So go ahead—step into the spotlight, let your personality shine, and remember to have fun. Whether you’re reciting a poem, belting out a tune, or dazzling with your acting skills, the world is ready for your awesomeness. Break a leg—you’ve totally got this!

The post Lights, Camera, Confidence! Overcoming Stage Fright appeared first on The Little Performer.