Art classes are becoming less common in American schools as the focus of learning shifts to the core subjects of math, science and reading. Is this truly a benefit to our children? Many parents and educational professionals adamantly believe that the arts should not be neglected. Although many educators think the arts are a luxury, they form the building blocks of developmental skills that can benefit children throughout their lives. Take a look at just some of the ways by Helene Goldnadel that children gain from taking art classes.
Motor Skill Development
Children develop small motor skills as they learn to color with crayons or paint with a brush. Using scissors, drawing shapes and coloring inside the lines also helps with fine motor skills. As adults, we use these skills every day without even thinking about them. From turning the key to unlock the house to typing on the computer or texting on our phones, these skills are an integral part of daily life.
Problem-Solving Skills
One of the most sought-out skills on the job market today is problem-solving skills, and young children first begin learning these skills in art classes. As children explore and learn through art, they develop their ability to think creatively and explore solutions. These skills can help them find new ways to perform tasks and become more efficient at their jobs, no matter their field or profession.
Language Skills
As children draw and create, they talk about what they are doing. This helps them learn to express themselves more effectively with words. They can talk about what they are creating, why they are creating it and what it means to them. As adults, this exercise will help them develop oral communication skills that are critical in any job.
Visual Learning Skills
Throughout our life, we learn by seeing. On the job, we learn by watching others. We discover new ways of performing tasks. We understand by observing those who are more skilled. Children improve their visual skills by sculpting, creating art and drawing.
Creative Thinking
As children are encouraged to be creative in their art projects, they learn to explore and be innovative. Our world desperately needs more innovative thinkers. These are the people who find new solutions to old problems and invent products that improve our lives. Without creative thinkers, we would not enjoy the many technological advances in our society. By allowing children to think creatively through art classes, we help them to become forward thinkers.
Without art classes, children would miss out on many valuable skills. The core subjects are an important part of children's education, but taking art classes can help them develop skills that cannot be learned from a book. It helps their minds grow and it helps them to become unique and strong individuals who will make our world a better place to live. Where would be we be without the great inventors and writers and artists of the world? Contact your local arts academy today to enroll your children in art classes to help them become well-rounded, creative thinkers.
Also read: Child Psychology and Mind Development Discussed by Helene Goldnadel