Dear Families,
Art is an important part of our preschool curriculum. Every day, children find a variety of art materials available on our shelves. Drawing, painting, pasting, molding, and constructing are not only enjoyable but also provide important opportunities for learning. Children express their ideas and feelings, improve their coordination, learn to recognize colors and textures, and develop creativity and pride in their accomplishments by exploring and using art materials.
When children are engaged in art activities, we talk with them about what they are doing and ask questions that encourage them to think about their ideas and express feelings.
We are just as interested in the creative process as we are in what children make. We say things that will encourage children to be creative and confident, such as
“Tell me about your picture” (instead of “Is that a house you drew?”
“It looks like the play dough is sticking to your fingers. What could we do to make it less sticky?”
What You Can Do at Home
Art is a very easy way to bring your child’s school life into your home. Children love to share their art products with the most important people in their lives. Take time to talk with your child. Here are some things you might say and ask:
“Tell me about your picture.”
“How did you decide which colors to use?”
“What do you like best about it?”
“Should we hang it up in a special place so we can all enjoy your work?”
You can help your child appreciate art right in your home. When you look at books together, talk about the illustrations with your child. Discuss the art in your home. Art is something your child can do at home in almost any room. You might designate a drawer in the kitchen or living room as an art drawer, or use a bookshelf or sturdy cardboard box. Include crayons; markers; paper; a pair of child-sized, blunt-edged scissors; glue; and a separate box for collage materials. Your child is much more creative and artistic than any coloring book allows!