Creativity is a vital skill that fosters imagination, innovation, and problem-solving abilities in children. It's a trait that can be nurtured from a young age through various activities, and one of the most effective ways to do so is through educational arts and crafts toys.
This blog highlights the various ways arts and crafts play fosters creativity, fine motor skills, and emotional intelligence. Discover our handpicked collection of art kits, drawing tools, and crafting sets suitable for different age groups, making it easy for you to find the perfect gift for your young artist.
The Benefits of Arts and Crafts Play in Child Development
Artistic and creative expression is not limited to adults; it's something that children can tap into as well. Here are some of the key benefits of arts and crafts play in child development:
Enhanced Fine Motor Skills
When children engage in arts and crafts activities, they refine their fine motor skills. Activities like drawing, cutting, and colouring require precision and control of small muscle movements. These skills are essential for tasks such as writing, tying shoelaces and buttoning clothes.
Boosted Self-Esteem and Confidence
Completing an arts and crafts project provides children with a sense of accomplishment. Seeing their ideas come to life and receiving praise for their creativity boosts their self-esteem and confidence. This positive reinforcement encourages them to explore their creative side further.
Improved Problem-Solving Skills
Arts and crafts often involve making choices, planning, and solving problems along the way. Whether it's deciding which colours to use or figuring out how to assemble a project, children learn to think critically and develop problem-solving skills through artistic activities.
Strengthened Concentration and Patience
Arts and crafts require focus and patience. Children learn to concentrate on their work, which can help improve their attention span. Additionally, they develop patience as they work on projects that may take time to complete.
Encouragement of Creativity and Imagination
Perhaps the most significant benefit of arts and crafts play is the encouragement of creativity and imagination. Children have the freedom to explore their ideas, experiment with different materials, and create unique pieces of art. This encourages a sense of originality and innovation.
Nurturing Creativity: BrightMinds' Top Art and Craft Toys for Toddlers
Now that we've highlighted the importance of arts and crafts play in child development, let's take a look at some of BrightMinds' top art toys specifically designed for toddlers:
1. Dejco Toddlers Box of Colours
This toddler art set is perfect for small hands! Including a mix of chunky felt tips, pencils and crayons neatly arranged in a customisable box, it makes a perfect gift for budding artists.
2. Melissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Art Easel
This standing art easel from Melissa & Doug is a fantastic tool for young artists to explore painting and drawing. It features a chalkboard on one side and a dry-erase board on the other, promoting versatility in artistic expression. Accompanying Melissa & Doug art accessories are also available to excellently complement the easel.
3. Djeco Play-Doh Play Set
Play-Doh is a classic arts and crafts material that kids love. This 4 tub and mould set comes in green, blue, yellow and red, allowing children to sculpt and create with endless possibilities.
Crafting Fun: Best Picks for Budding Artisans
As children grow and develop their artistic skills, they may be ready for more advanced art and craft projects. Here are some of our best picks for budding artisans:
1. Buttonbag Bumper Sewing and Embroidery Suitcase
Learn how to cross-stitch, sew and embroider built into an all-in-one kit. This embroidery suitcase is perfect for children who wish to create their own felt animals and patterns. Great for building advanced motor skills and focus.
2. Make 3D Animals Montessori
Create fun animals with chunky card designs! Experiment by fitting the pieces together in different ways to make a collection of fantastic creatures. This 3D animal set from HeadU is excellent for developing both creative and motor skills.
3. Djeco Kinoptic Moving Art Robots
An excellent way to combine art and optical illusions. This Kinoptik robots craft set allows you to create a robot on the chequered board and bring it to life using the striped sheet.
Develop creativity with art and craft toys from BrightMinds
At BrightMinds, we're dedicated to providing a wide range of art and craft toys that inspire children to unleash their imagination, develop essential skills, and embark on a journey of self-expression. Encourage your child's creativity today with our carefully curated selection of educational arts and crafts toys.