Dad explains why parents should completely embrace their theater kids: 'It's a good weird'

Every child is unique with personalities and talents that truly make them who they are. However, parents are usually biased towards seemingly "profitable" careers in STEM. They do not completely encourage kids to pursue performing acts such as theater. However, a dad and podcaster, Dustin Nickerson, shared a message with parents on why they should embrace their “weird theater kids.” He acknowledged that it is unique but equally rewarding in the growth and development of a child. The takeaways from his message inspired and resonated with many on TikTok, a video sharing platform.

“Parents, embrace your theater kids,” Nickerson emphasized. He pointed out that parents who dislike or aren’t accustomed to theater experiences may find it bizarre. “I know you’re scared. You see this world and you’re like, ‘I don’t understand it.' Is it weird? Yes,” he explained. However, Nickerson encouraged parents that though it may seem weird, theatre is extremely rewarding. “They have a great community, they have nice volunteers, they will all cry at the end, they’ll make friends. It’s like a youth group with a play in it,” he added. The dad accepts that it is not easy for parents to extend their complete support to kids pursuing theater.

“Are you going to hate the songs of Annie? Yes. You’re going to want to stab a little redhead? Yes,” Nickerson remarked. "But it is so good for them, it’s so healthy for them, those 3 months. They feel loved.” Joined by his guest on the podcast, she also chimed in, “They're learning harmonies, they’re learning choreography.” Nickerson also mentioned that along with skills Theater gives children a creative advantage to learn confidence, memorizing and so much more. “We have a kid with ADHD who’s memorizing stuff. It’s not easy to do. Theater-It’s a good weird,” he concluded.

Several parents agreed with Nickerson that though theater may be different, it is undoubtedly rewarding. Many parents shared what it’s like having theater kids and supporting them. @hagglundiz said, “Currently, I have a kid that’s belting out the Hamilton soundtrack daily. I'm on this journey!” @smorepy added, “My kid is in the crew. She’ll never go to an audition but man, does she rock a spotlight. I go to every show!” @ooshie2001 wrote, “Yes, absolutely, my ADHD kid found her people. She counts down to the next show!” @mrsrogersneighborhood added, “All of my kids are theater kids. I love their friend groups so much. Theater kids are the best kind of kids!” 

Many adults shared the benefits of having been part of theater as kids. @thefathandsome wrote, “My parents did more for me saying yes to doing theater as a kid than they could ever imagine.” @anastasiab47 exclaimed, “Best thing ever for my kid. His self-confidence went through the roof. He lived through being teased at school for this but he’s a better person because of this.” @growingwithmr.j said, “I’m going to be starting at a school that is fully immersive in arts as the director of academics. This is the best message ever!”

You can follow Dustin Nickerson (@dustinnickersoncomedy) on TikTok for more content on humor and parenting.