“The arts provide children with a vehicle and organizing framework to express ideas and feelings.” RIELDS
Arts and crafts are big in our house. We have a designated cabinet for all of our supplies and is well organized so we can see everything. While I am preparing food or cleaning up the kitchen, I always give my kids age appropriate art to do to keep them busy. It is a great way to keep them entertained rather than sitting them in front of the TV. Art is one of the first ways a child expresses his or herself and is really important for their development.
Why so Important
- develops mental, social, and emotional skills
- improves problem solving
- helps children express themselves, especially children with disabilities that can not verbally communicate
- improves fine motor skills when using paintbrushes, crayons, etc.
- scissors improve dexterity to help child learn to write
- builds self esteem
Tips and Tricks
- set up art space where kids can get messy and have access to supplies
- store most used items in caddies to easily move to table or art space
- use clear labeled containers to keep organized and easy to see
- let kids be free to express themselves with little direction
- bring in nature by collecting things like rocks, flowers, leaves, etc. and use in artwork
Suggested Supplies
play dough
chalk
paint
markers, colored pencils, crayons
sponges
stamps + ink pads
dot markers
plain + colored paper
tissue paper
felt
pipe cleaners
stickers
scissors
glue (plain + glitter)
glitter
sequins
pom poms
feathers
ribbon, string, yarn
beads
paper towel rolls
popsicle sticks
Resources
PBS parents – The Importance of Art in Child Development
Parents – Why Art and Creativity Are Important
