Why should early childhood educators be Incorporating Art in the Kindergarten Classroom? How do you make art meaningful and purposeful for your kindergartners? Is art even necessary?
Research has shown that children who have the opportunity to explore art such as coloring, drawing, painting, crafting, etc. strengthen fine motor skills, expand vocabulary and language skills, as well as develop critical thinking and problem solving techniques. This also stimulates neural connection development which is critical for early childhood.
Incorporating art in the kindergarten classroom by using an art or craft project in conjunction with academics, not only exercises all of these developmental skills, but studies have shown that art also improves scholastic success.
Having intentional, meaningful yet engaging art activities with your educational standards are imperative for your little learners. Not all art activities must have a purpose. However, I have found that using an art or craft project with academics is not only more fun for the student, but the hands-on movements help make the neural connections necessary for academic development.
Here are some of my favorite intentional, engaging, and meaningful art activities for kindergarteners.
This is a multi purposeful Alphabet Animal Art activity that you and your little learners will love. Not only is this an art project that can be used is many ways, but also reinforced literacy skills. Students can color, paint, create torn paper art, or make Salt Art with black glue. Fun for the whole class!!
Check out “Alphabet Animal Art Ideas” for more on this fabulous activity!!
There are so many ways to incorporated art in the kindergarten classroom. Just remember, hands-on activities along with art help to cement academic skills. Don’t be afraid to let your little learners explore with many different art supplies while practicing their scholastic skills.
