| 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 exploring 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
problem solving);
~
increases their social and emotional development
(a
sense of individuality, appreciation of others’ work, and sharing).
Children who are encouraged to engage in expressive art activities
also
gain a sense of accomplishment and grow toward achieving
independence
and autonomy.
|
