Importance of encouraging arts and crafts to build children’s development
At Care for Kindies we encourage art and craft activities that give children a sense of achievement and allow them to take pride in their work which builds confidence. Making art is a great, safe way to discover that it's okay to make mistakes and that getting through hurdles can lead you to a whole new idea. Children love to do arts and crafts and it’s important for them to practice it both at school and at home.
Here are some areas that children can build on through arts and crafts:
1. Fine Motor skills
When children use their fingers and hands to explore art materials they are developing their fine motors skills as they use their muscles in their hands. Their bilateral coordination skills improve as they learn to use both hands at the same time. These motor skills are worked when children engage in painting, colouring, gluing, and cutting. The quicker their fine motors skills develop the more they can do on their own, from eating by themselves to putting on their own socks.
2. Literacy and Numeracy
Early child literacy skills in art and crafts cover a wide range of areas – from speaking and reading to listening and understanding. When children make art or crafts, they get to talk about their work which develops their communication skills. They learn new vocabulary from educators and when following verbal instructions, they use their listening skills. A skill that’s very important when transitioning to Kindergarten or “big school”.
Numeracy skills are often not thought of as being part of art and crafts activities. But numeracy skills are used frequently and have a positive effect of developing mathematical skills in preschool children. Children get to learn about and recognise different shapes, count and sort out their art supplies and even measure out lengths and sizes of art materials.
3. Creativity
Art allows kids to develop their creativity which is important throughout their lives. By doing something creative, you allow for self-expression and this lets children express their feelings and emotions. Arts and crafts also fosters mental growth in children by providing opportunities for trying out new ideas, new ways of thinking and problem-solving.
4. Self-Esteem
Art and craft activities give children a sense of achievement and allow them to take pride in their work which builds confidence. Making art is a great, safe way to discover that it’s okay to make mistakes and that getting through hurdles can lead you to a whole new idea.
5. Quality time
Children love to spend time with their parents and what better way than to do arts and crafts together! You get to spend quality time bonding with your child and at the same time, you are creating lifelong memories to cherish. While you are crafting together you get to talk about what you are making and discuss different ideas and subject matters. You can talk about what you think, feel and care about.
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