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CURRICULUM AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT * 2 HOURS * LEVEL 2

Page 6

Earthworks: Art and Nature

Artsy

Art is included in nearly every early childhood program on the planet. Much like reading and math skill practice, there is good reason for this inclusion. According to the National Art Education Association art includes creative and personal expression, learning the value and purpose of work and also language acquisition. These are incredibly important skills that children, and even adults, can benefit from. Working hard to achieve a goal whether independently or collaboratively is a basic skill that all children need. This also aids in the development of executive functioning skills where children will make a plan, carry out the plan and manage their time and actions accordingly.
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The use of art can support a preschool child’s growing social and emotional development, cognitive development and fine motor development. The self-satisfaction that comes from a child’s artwork can help to develop their social and emotional development in many ways. Students can benefit from conversation about their artwork with their peers.
Cognitive development is greatly supported through art. From the simple task of drawing a pencil outline to the complicated process of molding a sculpture. New concepts are being discovered and new connections are being created. The simple act of deciding what to create helps children practice their decision making skills and aids in executive function development. As you can see, there are a myriad of benefits that come from including nature in your art curriculum.