Creativity takes courage
- Henry Matisse, French artist
It is fascinating to watch a preschooler at play. Their energy, focus and imagination cannot be duplicated in the adult world. A four year old does not understand the courage it takes to create a work of art or produce a sculpture out of playdough; those fears and inhibitions only come with age. Sara Gable, a State Extension Specialist at The University of Missouri writes about the importance of encouraging creativity in children and ideas for promoting creativity in young children.
During the month of January, FasTracKids will focus on the subject of Creativity. Children will get to see famous works of art and express their opinions on some of the world’s master artists. In addition to being challenged to embrace their unique point of view in art, they will explore different art mediums. Children will also explore their creativity in problem solving situations that will lay the foundation for overcoming problems in their future.
Creativity is a gift to young children. Start the New Year by encouraging them to utilize all their creative talent.
Here are some activities that you can do as a family:
- Discuss with your child different styles of art he/she finds particularly interesting or appealing and why?
- Play a variety of music (radio, digital music, CDs) selections and dance with your child. Encourage your child to listen to how his/her body responds to the music and dance accordingly. Does fast music make you happy and want to dance fast or silly? How does slow music make you feel? How does it make you want to move?
- Talk about a favorite job or career, discussing how it is unique, interesting and important.
- Encourage your child to help solve simple problems at home, such as how to get chores completed in time to play outside.
