How Art Helps Children Develop as Open-Minded Adults

Kids express themselves through art on a general level. Their artwork can be the symbol of the expression, but more often, the physical process of creating is the expression. Unlike older kids and adults, most toddlers and preschoolers aren't self-conscious about what they've focused on creating a finished product. (Photo by Unsplash-Kirstin Brown)

Allowing children to enjoy the process of creation can create big rewards. Children will be better off in the long run if they're allowed to be in the moment and express themselves. Grooming creativity won't just increase your child's chances of becoming the next Picasso. You're also helping him developmentally, socially, and emotionally.

Photo: Bernard Herment

When a child feels good while creating art, it helps instill self-confidence. Children feel able to experiment, make mistakes, and feel free to invent new ways of thinking, which extends well beyond the art studio or classroom.

Photo:Dragos Gontariu

Creating art allows children to work through feelings and emotions, and referring to a finished piece of artwork helps a child talk about feelings in a new and meaningful way.

Photo:Senjuto Kundu

Art also develops child creativity. Rather than being told what to do, answers and directions come from the child. Art is an experience that requires free-thinking, experimentation, and analysis, all part of creativity. Art allows children to break out of their comfort zone and understand that mistakes are a part of life and the only way to get better at something is to practice it. Art helps children come to terms with themselves and the control they have over their efforts. Through art, they also practice sharing, taking turns, and appreciating one another efforts. Art fosters positive mental health by allowing a child to show individual uniqueness, success as part of a positive self-concept. So wonderful parents, hurry up, and sign up your children in art class today!