Artsy Thursday

Art plays a crucial role in the development of early childhood, offering numerous benefits that contribute to holistic growth. Engagement in artistic activities enhances cognitive abilities, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and spatial reasoning. In addition, engaging in various forms of art, such as drawing, painting, dance, movement, and other art forms, provides children with a non-verbal outlet to express their emotions and develop emotional resilience.

Engaging in art activities such as painting, drawing, and collage helps build fine motor skills necessary for handwriting and hand eye coordination. As children engage in collaborative artwork, they also learn cooperation and social skills. Exposure to art introduces children to diverse cultures and perspectives and promotes cultural awareness and appreciation.

Finally, research notes that participation in art enhances creativity, encouraging children to think outside the box and explore innovative ideas. Children also build confidence and self-esteem as they express their ideas in original artworks.

Research:

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2018). Council on Early Childhood. Media and young minds. Pediatrics, 138(5), e20162591.
Harsányi, A., & Révész, G. (2015). Self-perception of Competence in Hungarian Elementary School Children: A Cross-Sectional Study. Journal of Applied School Psychology, 31(4), 317–334.
Milbrath, C., & Mott, K. (2019). Drawing and Early Literacy in Kindergarten. Journal of Early Childhood Research, 17(4), 351–368.
National Endowment for the Arts. (2012). The Arts in Early Childhood: Social and Emotional Benefits of Arts Participation: A Literature Review and Gap-Analysis.
National Art Education Association. (2017). Arts Education in Public Elementary and Secondary Schools: 1999–2000 and 2009–10.
Runco, M. A., & Acar, S. (2012). Divergent Thinking as an Indicator of Creative Potential. Creativity Research Journal, 24(1), 66–75.
Winner, E., Goldstein, T. R., & Vincent-Lancrin, S. (2013). Art for the talented and gifted: What do we know? Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts, 7(1), 53–60.

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