“Every child is an artist.” If Pablo Picasso said it, there’s probably some truth to it. I think we can all agree he knows his art. But, what does that mean? We can be honest in saying that not every child is the next Pablo Picasso, nor does every child want to be.

What it means is that every child can find a way to express themselves through art. On the topic of popular sayings : “Through children’s eyes.” When children are in their foundational years, they can’t always articulate in words how they’re feeling or how they’re processing the world around them. That only comes with time and development. But being able to draw, color, build, craft, sing, dance, and all the other forms of art we celebrate – that is the best outlet there is for children to express emotion.

It’s Not Just About Creativity

While encouraging creativity is a benefit at the forefront of art for kids, there’s quite a handful of other benefits that don’t jump always jump right to mind. Educators have expressed that engaging in art projects can help children develop fine motor skills, particularly helping improve dexterity and coordination. The best part? Children don’t even realize it’s happening. What better way to help kids grow than through something they truly enjoy and want to participate in?

Drawing translates to writing. Building with blocks translates to strength for crawling and walking.

Facilitating Connection

On top of the physical benefits, art can help kids connect and improve social skills. How many times has your child come home excited to tell you about a group art project? Allowing children to work together to build and create art injects comfort and happiness into social situations, helping children feel more and more comfortable with interaction as they develop.

Even outside their interactions with their peers, it’s a well-known fact that art is the universal language. Developing an interest in art can help children find connection with anyone they meet. This includes an interest in music, painting, dancing – any form of art.

Art is a huge part of our program at the Simon Center because of the endless ways it helps our children learn and grow. If you’re looking for ways to incorporate art at home, there are a few great resources like The Artful Parent readily available for parents to find hundreds of different art projects that are easy and accessible just about anywhere. Or if you’re a member of the Simon Center family, reach out to your teacher to brainstorm a few ideas. Art is magic that we want to spread!