2/23/11
Can You See What I See? Over the years, educators, psychologists, and philosophers have come to appreciate the value of children’s art and its important role in early childhood education. It is now agreed by many in the field that expl
oring and creating with art materials helps children become more sensitive to the physical environment (for instance, shape size, and color); promotes cognitive development (decision-making, nonverbal communication, and pro
blem solving); and increases their
social and emotional development (a sense of individuality, appreciation of others’ work, and sharing). Young children who are encouraged to engage in expressive art activities also gain a sense of accomplishment and grow toward achieving independence and autonomy. Art activities offer children meaningful tasks for practicing motor skills. A young child starts with control of only large arm muscles but in time master’s small muscles in wrists, fingers and hands. As art enhances activity, it also offers opportunities too develop logic and reason. As children decide which colors to mix, or how to mold clay, they are reasoning. Through trial and error, they discover the properties of certain materials and physical laws, which influence creative decisions and increase their understanding of their world.
