Art is an important part of your child’s development and one which can benefit them in many areas of their life.
Joe Richardson at the University of the Arts, London says “… beyond what we feel or believe, the importance of art in children's development is key. Arts and creativity cultivate well-being and help young learners create connections between subjects. … creative opportunities … stimulate young children’s curiosity, creativity, and imagination, and support the development of communications skills. Being creative helps children cope with their feelings and fears, as well as managing their emotional states.”
I wholeheartedly agree with the great John Lennon who said, “Every child is an artist until he's told he's not an artist.” and I think we should give them every opportunity to find out what sort of artist they are! So, get out the lining paper, the finger paints, the playdough, the old shirt to wear and let them at it!
For your older artists, there are a whole spectrum of resources and guides from which to choose. I am a huge fan of an art book – from colouring in, to ‘how to’ guides to encyclopaedias of art. Chris Riddell's Doodle-A-Day is a brilliant book, filled with inspiration for all manner of artists. It is a great way to get those creative juices flowing, helping stimulate the creativity (a lot of children suffer from ‘artists’ block’) and developing some good journaling habits, albeit in the form of doodles! Chris’s own sketchbook is a gorgeous accompaniment – read all about his own experiences and examples of his own sketches.
Art comes in all forms and this lovely kit from Djeco allows children to show their creativity in a hands-on manner. Combining the natural childish urge to hit things with a hammer with an artistic outcome, this really does ‘hit the spot’! Great for fine motor skills too – picking up the nails and positioning them on the shapes to be hammered into the cork board. Creative decision making comes into play as the pieces can be interchanged to make different pictures (there is always the option of reproducing the pictures on the cards which takes away the pressure some children feel when having to create something new). There’s a lovely form of storytelling in this tangible art form which will appeal to a wide range of children.
If you have a budding sculptor who is looking for the next step after playdough and plasticine, then these really tactile wax coated modelling sticks are just awesome. I love the opportunities for incorporating construction techniques with 3D modelling. These are addictive! I tried out a set before sending some to my godson and still have loads left which I turn to for some mindfulness time – really something for every creative in your family especially those who like to get busy with their hands!
An absolute must have for your young artists is this brilliant reference book which take the reader through all the major artworks and gives them a beautifully visual tour of some of the most well-known artists’ work. There are in-depth explanations of the different styles, art from different places or era and a really range of mediums. Definitely one for the bookshelf!
by Allie White, educational consultant to BrightMinds
As a parent and former-teacher, Allie has a hands-on approach to home learning, believing that the best learning is done together in a relaxed environment.
Our mission at BrightMinds is to foster “a brighter way to play” to inspire your child to be curious about the world around them & encourage creativity in a fun & relaxed way.
We curate a world-class range of educational toys, games, gifts & books which are good quality, safe and backed by our extraordinary customer service. Children’s Art is our speciality and an Art gift from BrightMinds is a wonderful gift for your special girl or boy.
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