How do arts and crafts help with child development?
The importance of a creative outlet
Does your child find themselves drawing on the walls, or cutting up things they really shouldn’t? Redirecting their… let’s say, artistic flair… into something more beneficial can come with a whole host of advantages for their development.
In this blog post, we’ll be covering some of the main benefits that come from allowing your child to explore their inner creativity through art. Read on to find out about how it can build up their motor skills, improve their critical thinking skills, and even reduce stress!
Improves problem-solving and motor skills
Did you know that the same part of the brain responsible for your child’s creativity also handles their problem-solving ability? By making time and space for your child to explore art, they will build up key skills used in their developmental milestones, and will only get better as time goes on.
Not only this, but art is a safe way for your child to begin honing their skills - whether they’re practising their motor skills by picking up a paintbrush, or learning maths skills through size, shape and counting objects, your child will start to feel more comfortable when it comes to using these skills in their daily lives!
Builds critical thinking and literacy skills
Developing your child’s communication skills can come from asking them about their art - asking them to tell you about what they made (so you can pretend you knew it was a tiger all along) or what made them choose green over yellow can create conversations and encourage critical thinking.
Also, your child may choose to get into reading or learning more about an artist that inspires them, or they may do their own research on different techniques. Especially in the case of older kids, art can follow them closely throughout their life - if they choose to keep the passion alight, can even present itself in their career.
Reduces stress
There have also been studies that reveal making art lowers cortisol levels - no matter your artistic ability! Cortisol is better known as the ‘stress hormone’, which regulates your body’s response to stress, so the less there is, the more relaxed you’ll feel!
Additionally, art has the ability to increase serotonin and dopamine levels in individuals - these happy hormones also play a part in healthy sleep, mood and learning, too! There are many studies revealing the power of art in promoting positive emotions and even contributing to improved well-being.
Social awareness and self-confidence
Art in a collaborative environment can also give your child more of an understanding of social behaviours. Pro-social behaviours - sharing, helping and emphasising with others, tend to flow more freely in an artistic environment.
While we’re on the subject, your child can also benefit from increased self-esteem and confidence in their artistic ability with praise and the sense of achievement of making an awesome creation! Making mistakes in an artistic environment is totally fine (and even encouraged, so learning can take place) which can also develop patience.
Craft with Doodlebugs!
Taking part in arts and crafts has a multitude of benefits for your child - and at the end of the day, you get something to stick on the fridge! With so many winners involved, why don’t you consider allowing your child to create freely with Doodlebugs?
Our arts and crafts club is screen-free, allowing children from 4-10 to have a safe environment whilst making masterpieces. Visit our website today to enquire or book, or call us on 07706 549391!
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