Tis the Season to Be Artsy

“Every child is an artist; the problem is staying an artist when you grow up.” -Pablo Picasso.  

This famous quote reflects not only the importance of art in the adult world, but also of its place in a child’s learning environment.  Creativity is an essential part of growth and learning that helps children to gain confidence while exploring the world around them.  Painting in early childhood is a wonderful outlet for this purpose.  It allows children to test their imaginations and improve problem-solving, all while having fun.  Painting builds self-confidence in children because you are trusting them with a messy project and allowing them to make their own decisions in the process.  This type of trust given is helpful later in life not only for them to have the courage to express themselves, but also because they are encouraged to stand firm on their own which is helpful into adulthood.  Painting puts the child in control.  They are deciding where the paint goes, what color to use and what the finished product will look like. This teaches ownership and problem-solving skills that are beneficial in many different subjects.

As we find ourselves in the midst of the Holiday season, it is a great opportunity to incorporate this festive time into creative lessons.  This allows children to explore their creativity and teaches them about different cultures.  There are many art projects that can incorporate the subject of holidays.  Painting Christmas trees and Hanukkah Menorahs, coloring paper Kwanzaa Kinaras, and drawing New Year’s fireworks are great ways of having creative fun while introducing children to other cultures.  A sensory experience can also be encouraged by having children paint with pine cones or Christmas tree branches instead of paint brushes.  This is a great way for kids to experiment with different textures and opens them up to endless possibilities. 

Wood Designs offers every type of art easel to accommodate these projects.  We have art easels for 1-4 students with chalkboards, acrylic boards, marker boards, and plywood boards for all of your art needs.  Need bins or baskets to organize those art supplies or a drying rack to dry those priceless works of art?  Visit WoodDesigns!