6 reasons why arts and crafts are important for child development

Arts and crafts remain a source of creativity for children in a world increasingly dominated by technology and digital experiences. A recent online article I read, written by a kindergarten teacher and mother like me, delves into the impact that artistic activities have on a child's overall development. 

1. Motor skills – When kids use their fingers to manipulate art materials, they are developing their fine motor skills as they use those small muscles in their hands. Their bilateral coordination skills improve as they learn to use both hands at the same time. All this happens when they paint, colour, glue, and cut. The quicker their fine motor skills develop, the more they can do on their own, from eating by themselves to tying their shoelaces. 

2. Literacy – Early child literacy skills in arts and crafts cover a wide range of areas, from speaking and reading to listening and understanding. When kids make art or crafts, they get to talk about their work, which develops their communication skills. “Why did you choose that colour?” “Tell me about what you made.” They learn new vocabulary from their parents, and when following verbal instructions, they use their listening skills. A skill all parents want our kids to grasp as soon as possible so they can start listening to us. 

3. Math Concepts – Basic math skills are often not thought of as being part of arts and crafts activities. However, math skills are used frequently and have a positive effect on developing mathematical skills in preschool children. Kids get to learn about and recognise different shapes, count and sort out their art supplies, and even measure out the lengths and sizes of art materials. To master math, you need good thinking and problem-solving skills, which arts and crafts activities help with as well.

4. Creativity – Art allows kids to develop their creativity, which is important throughout their lives. By doing something creative, you allow for self-expression and this lets kids express (and cope with) their feelings. It also fosters mental growth in children by providing opportunities for trying out new ideas, new ways of thinking, and problem-solving. I came across this interesting article about Mary Ann Kohl, who is the author of numerous award-winning art idea books for children. In an interview, she says, “In children, creativity develops from their experiences with the process rather than concern for the finished product. Creativity is not to be confused with talent, skill, or intelligence. Creativity is not about doing something better than others; it is about thinking, exploring, discovering, and imagining.”

5. Self-Esteem – Art and craft activities give kids a sense of achievement and allow them to take pride in their work, which builds confidence. Making art is a great, safe way to discover that it’s okay to make mistakes and that getting things ‘wrong’ can lead you to a whole new idea. Kids get to try new things and also develop their “self-regulation skills” (e.g., when waiting for paint or glue to dry). This helps them develop patience, which all kids need help with!

6. Quality time / Parent Bonding – Kids just love to spend time with their parents, and what better way than to do arts and crafts together! You get to spend quality time bonding with your kids, and at the same time, you are creating lifelong memories to cherish. While you are crafting together, you get to talk about what you are making and discuss different ideas and subject matters. You can talk about what you think, feel, and care about. And as an added bonus, your child isn’t using technology or looking at a screen!

Work Cited“6 reasons why art and crafts are so important for child development – ActivityBox.” Activity Box, https://activity-box.com/6-reasons-why-art-and-crafts-are-so-important-for-child-development. Accessed 7 December 2023.