The Art Of Creativity
Your child may be very into science or math, but it’s important she participates in artistic activities as well. Our private schools in Orlando don’t just focus on the common core subjects; we highly encourage your child to practice the arts. Arts and crafts are very important for child development because fostering creativity helps her develop mentally, socially, and emotionally.
Motor Skills
Painting and drawing require a lot of motions, such as holding a brush and coloring with a crayon. These talents are important for the growth of fine motor skills in your young child. As she gets older and develops these skills, she will enhance her writing skills, getting dressed, and other tasks that require movement.
Language Skills
By sharing her artwork and discussing the process, your child is developing her language skills. Be sure to actively listen, and ask questions to continue the dialogue and show her you’re engaged. This allows her the opportunity to learn, shapes, colors, and actions. Bonus: It’s a great family-bonding activity!
Cognitive Development
Art helps children learn and maintain skills like cause and effect and decision-making. Creating art will eventually lead to her displaying critical thinking skills, such as making mental plans and picturing what she wants to create.
Here are some ways you can inspire your child’s creativity:
Encourage (and be prepared) for messiness.
Discuss art with her.
Don’t give direction. Support, don’t lead.
Encourage her process. Don’t focus on the product.
Let it go and let her be.
Here are some art ideas your child can do:
Shaving-cream canvas: Have your child spray shaving cream onto a cookie sheet, then add a few drops of food coloring. Let her blend colors and make designs.
Prints from found objects: Spread washable paint on a foam tray. Take items, such as cardboard, bottle caps, and vegetable slices, and let your child dip them in paint. Use these items to make prints.
Sculpture from packing peanuts: Gather packing peanuts that are biodegradable and made from cornstarch. Have your child dampen the end of one peanut, then stick them together to build a sculpture.
For more than 50 years, private schools in Orlando have been helping children grow to their fullest potential and become leaders within their communities. We offer unique and dynamic learning environments that engage students and encourage them to become confident and responsible adults. To learn more about what makes us different, contact us today.