The Importance of Art in Children’s Lives
Introduction
Exposure to art plays an important role in children’s lives. Not only is it a form of creative expression, it also helps with social, and emotional development, as well as problem solving. Whether its exposure to art or actual participation in art, children will face long lasting benefits.
Brain Development
When children are participating in art it allows them to problem-solve and practice critical thinking. An example of this is when a child needs to figure out how to mix certain colors or decide what material to use for a specific project. Although these decisions seem insignificant, these children are practicing decision-making skills. Another way exposure to art is important to the brain development of children is that it helps children’s abilities to utilize visual information to recognize patterns, and navigate specific environments. Art helps this skill because when children are exposed to different art styles and artists it broadens their understanding of the world around them, which will allow them to understand the environment around them and be able to interpret information visibly.
Emotional Expression
Children may have a hard time expressing emotions, they don't have the words for. Art gives children an outlet to show their emotions, that they might not be able to fully express with words. Through different projects like painting or drawing they can express and process feelings like frustration, regret, and joy. Also consistently creating art can help reduce stress, and give a sense of accomplishment, which boost self-esteem.
Social Awareness
Exposure to different types of art, will introduce children to different perspectives, and cultures. This is important because it expands their view of the world around them, and encourages empathy. Also art projects that are collaborative, will give an opportunity for kids to learn teamwork, effective communication, and respect for different ideas that aren't theirs.
Imagination
One of the most important things art exposure does to children is promote imagination. No matter the type of art project, like painting, doing chalk outside, or sculpting clay, art allows children to have a space they can use their imagination to think outside of the box. Art allowing children to positively use their imagination lays down the groundwork for the children to be innovative and use creative problem solving in the future.
Both exposure to art, like looking at illustrations in books or visiting galleries, and doing art, like crafting, drawing, or painting, are very important. These two forms of art exposure creates an environment that supports growth in children, socially, emotionally, and intellectually.
Exposure to different types of art, will introduce children to different perspectives, and cultures. This is important because it expands their view of the world around them, and encourages empathy. Also art projects that are collaborative, will give an opportunity for kids to learn teamwork, effective communication, and respect for different ideas that aren't theirs.