When you visit a preschool it is essential to ask how much art the children are creating each day. At the core of learning is the desire to be creative, and children know the difference between true art and art that is directed by adult expectations. A good preschool needs to provide art through out the day, not just on certain occasions.
The best art is process art, where children are allowed to create their own vision, with the only result is that they like what they have created.
Why is art important? Here are ten reasons:
1. Art nourishes a child’s soul and true creative spirit.
2. Creating art promotes self esteem.
3. Art encourages children to give attention to the physical space that surrounds them.
4. When creating art children learn to solve problems and think for themselves, known as critical thinking.
5. Art teaches children to use their senses.
6. Children can share and reflect on their art work to help them makes sense of the world they live in.
7. When art is integrated with other curriculum, children commit to the learning process.
8. Art stimulates the right and left side of the brain.
9. Art teaches there is more than one way to solve a problem.
10. If a child learns to love art, this will stay with them forever.
If we want children to love art, it needs to be a part of their daily preschool life. This will far outlast knowing their ABC”S or how to write the alphabet.
Debbie Bacino has been an early childhood educator for the past twenty years as a preschool teacher, director and parent educator. She is a member of the National Association of Early Childhood Educators, Pasadena City College’s Advisory Board and a local preschool directors networking group. Debbie is the owner and Director of La Canada Preschool. Her vision is to provide the best environment for children to experience discovery and their sense of wonder at this magical moment in human development.
