1. Motor skills
When children use creative materials with their fingers, they are developing fine motor skills by using the little muscles in their hands. As babies learn to use both hands at the same time, their bilateral coordination improves.
All of this occurs when kids paint, color, glue, and cut. The sooner their fine motor skills develop, the more they will be able to perform on their own, from feeding to tying their own shoelaces. When we originally taught Kelly to tie her laces, she could do it herself in a day! Amazing!
2. Literacy
Early childhood literacy abilities in art and crafts vary from speaking and reading to listening and comprehending. When children create art or crafts, they have the opportunity to discuss their creation, which improves their communication abilities. “How did you decide on that color?” “Tell me about your creation.” They pick up new words from their parents and employ their listening abilities when following verbal directions. A skill that all parents want their children to master as soon as possible so that they may begin to listen to us!
3. Math Concepts
Basic arithmetic abilities are sometimes overlooked as a component of arts and crafts activities. However, math skills are regularly employed and have a good influence on the development of mathematical skills in preschool children.
Children may learn and recognize different shapes, count and organize their art tools, and even measure the lengths and sizes of art items. To grasp arithmetic, you must have strong thinking and problem-solving abilities, which art and crafts activities may help you develop.
4. Creativity
Art encourages children to develop their creativity, which will be beneficial to them throughout their life. Doing something creative allows for self-expression, which allows children to express (and cope with) their emotions. It also promotes mental development in youngsters by giving them opportunity to try out new ideas, methods of thinking, and problem-solving techniques.
5. Self-Esteem
Art and craft activities provide children with a sense of accomplishment and allow them to take pleasure in their work, which boosts their confidence. Making art is a terrific, safe approach to learn that it’s alright to make errors and that doing things “wrong” may lead to a completely new concept. Children get to experience new things while simultaneously honing their “self-regulation abilities” (e.g. when waiting for paint or glue to dry). This aids in the development of patience, which is something that all children require assistance with!
