When children head back to school or preschool this month, chances are they will be engaged in activities that involve the arts – designing their own name tags, perhaps, or learning a sing-along. They may even do some dance moves to release their nervous energy.
Besides calming those first-day jitters, the arts – whether it’s drawing or drama, music or movement – can stimulate and inspire . . . and lead to improved academics.
There’s lots of research to support this. Music instruction leads to a better understanding of math concepts, and the visual and performing arts help with language development, coordination and spatial abilities.
Childhaven teachers use art to help young children who have experienced abuse and neglect work through difficult emotions that they may not be able express verbally. Art projects also help them focus, follow directions, make choices and practice social and communication skills, as when they have to ask for and share supplies.
We incorporate music, too. Our “Music Man,” Brian Vogan, makes weekly visits to each of our four branches, much to the delight of some very enthusiastic fans. As a boy, Vogan says that music helped him listen, focus and turn his pent-up emotions into something positive.
It is no coincidence that preschool and early-childhood education programs are loaded with arts activities – what better way to engage the young brain? We’ve all witnessed that pride when our son has created something special or that joy when our daughter can’t stop singing the song she learned in school.
Unfortunately, arts and music are often the first things on the chopping block when schools are forced to make budget cuts. As parents, we can advocate for and get involved in our child’s arts education. We can also do our part to keep the creative flame alive at home.
Here are some tips:
Draw your child’s attention to the colorful objects and interesting patterns and shapes you see around you. Keep plenty of art supplies and dress-up clothes on hand. Play all kinds of recorded music and invite your child to dance with you.
Show a genuine interest in your child’s creations with specific comments about what you like (don’t critique it). Then put it on display if possible.
Encourage an interest in music, drama and visual arts by taking your child to community performances and exhibits. Talk about what you’ve seen.
Get involved with creative projects and activities at your child’s school.
If your child is learning to play an instrument, allow him to practice in the main part of the house (no banishing to the garage), and take note of his progress.
Offer to watch while your child practices a skit or dance routine, but don’t force her to perform if she doesn’t want to.
Encourage your child to see lessons through to the end, but don’t force him to continue something he’s clearly lost interest in.
Debra C. Ronnholm is president of Childhaven. Since 1909, Childhaven has been a safe and caring place for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. For more information, visit the Web site at www.childhaven.org.
