Engaging with art is an important part of a child’s experience. Almost as soon as motor skills are developed, children communicate through artistic expression. The visual arts challenge us with different points of view, compels us to empathize with others, and gives us the opportunity create environments for independent thinking, risk-taking, and inventiveness.
School of Art
“I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way – things I had no words for.” – Georgia O’Keeffe
Participating in art can help young children learn about cooperation, collaboration, empathy, and emotional regulation. Art-related activities are fun for young children and are a good way to encourage creativity and assist with the development of fine motor skills and spatial awareness.
As the many art disciplines involve moving the hands and fingers, they help in developing fine motor skills. Even simple actions like coloring with pencils or holding a paintbrush help to strengthen the muscles and improve their control, increases dexterity, and improves hand-eye coordination.
The act of exploring and trying new ideas develops a child's mind as a critical thinker and problem solver as they consider and make choices. These experiences in creating art carry over into other areas.
Social Benefits
Physical Benefits
Problem Solving
“My goal with the West Texas Conservatory is allow children to nurture their love of art by exploring different mediums. My intention is to give my group of artists a short introduction to their work, but allow them the space, materials, and time to create art without external influences.”
-Kristina Daigle
Children are active hands on learners. Kinesthetic learning engages students by bringing abstract ideas to life. This physical, hands-on engagement makes complex ideas accessible to early childhood students.