Isaac's after-school activities

Isaac has always loved singing and dancing. He was dancing before he could walk. We have tried a variety of after-school clubs, but one of his favourites that he has stuck with is a performing arts class where he practices singing, dancing, acting and has fun playing games too.

He recently took part in their talent show with 12 other acts singing, dancing and acting. At first, he wanted to sing but had problems remembering the words with the instrumental backing track, so he changed it to a dance which is definitely his strongest skill.

His confidence shone through. He has a particular way in engaging an audience, and after the public votes were counted, he won! He was presented with his trophy, certificate and box of chocolates by his teacher, Vicky.

Whenever Isaac starts or trials a new group, I make sure I chat with the instructors, giving them a whistle-stop deaf awareness tour from the start. This helps Isaac settle in, knowing his instructors are aware of lighting and know to reduce background noise where possible, face him when speaking, and to not cover their mouths when talking. If Isaac needs to take breaks and not join in, he sits out and then rejoins the class when he’s ready.

This has always been a group he has attended independently, and he loves going every week. Although when I ask what he has done that week, I quite often get the answer we all dread: “I don't know.” He also currently attends basketball and has deaf-aware swimming lessons too.

Isaac truly comes alive when he’s on stage and doesn't show one ounce of nervousness at all. We know it's his happy place, and we will continue to encourage this for as long as he continues to enjoy the stage!