Stimulating children’s arts and crafts
Creative interaction between parents and young children is believed to provide immediate and lasting intellectual benefits.
Dirkie de Villiers, a local educational psychologist, says this can also create a bonding moment which can last forever.
Parents might say they are not creative and don’t know where to start, but they don’t have to consider themselves creative to get started.
The best way to develop creativity is to provide a variety of materials which gives children time to create their art on their own.
Children are still on holiday after the festive season and need to be kept busy and with art multiple brain areas will simultaneously improve.
“Art is an opportunity to develop children’s skills,” says De Villiers.
Research shows that art activities develop brain capacity in early childhood.
It engages children’s senses in open-ended play and supports the development of cognitive, social-emotional and multi-sensory skills.
De Villiers says as children progress into elementary school and beyond, art continues to provide opportunities for brain development, knowledge, self-esteem and creativity.
She encourages creativity, which she feels is an expression of the child’s own ideas.
Five benefits of arts and crafts:
- Bilateral coordination
Crafts such as colouring-in, drawing and cutting all require your child to use both their hands.
- Fine motor coordination
In order to draw shapes, cut patterns, and write, your child is required to use his or her fine motor coordination.
- Self-regulation
Crafts that require drying require waiting. This is a great lesson for you child to demonstrate self control and patience.
- Self-esteem booster
Completing the crafts successfully will give them a great sense of accomplishment and pride.
- Bonding and fun
Children will love spending time with their parents and creating something together.
“As long as a child is not tired, any time of day is a good time to interact with them,” says De Villiers.
