Children who are exposed to art education experience enhanced growth and learning. Sadly, many schools have had to cut art programs due to budget concerns, but luckily there are many great opportunities still available. This is especially true in the Charleston, SC area, where programs are available for children of any age to be exposed to art. Here are some of the great benefits of art education and what characteristics make up a good art program for children:
The Many Benefits
Studies have shown that art education for children can have many great benefits. For example, art, either through painting, coloring, music, or drama increases the brain activity of the child exposed to it. The sort of creativity that art can supply also helps nurture kinesthetic skills and spatial awareness. These skills are extremely important for a child’s intellectual growth and, more than likely, the child will have fun throughout the process.
The benefits certainly do not end there, as children exposed to art can build their self-esteem and learn to follow directions and acquire problem solving skills. Art also allows for a child to develop hand-eye coordination as well as visual perception.
Perhaps the greatest benefit that art has on children is freedom of expression. Often, kids do not have the verbal skills necessary to accurately or adequately express their likes and dislikes. This can be extremely frustrating and can sometimes cause emotional distress. Especially true for adolescents and teens who may not be very extroverted, art allows them a creative way to express their thoughts and personalities. There are a lot of other great benefits to art education for children, and getting them exposed at an early age is a great way to begin fostering these many essential life skills.
What to Look for in a Great Art Program
Art education for children in Charleston, SC is available, and many of these great programs have websites that detail their services. If you are looking for art programs, some of the characteristics you want to make sure are available are classes or programs for age-specific groups. Some programs focused on art education for children will offer programs for toddlers, four to six year olds, seven to twelve year olds, and teens. This is a great option to have, because certain art programs are uniquely designed for those age ranges.
Aside from diverse age-appropriate courses, it is important to check to see what other customers have said about the program you are considering. Do a little research on their website and check links to social media for other people’s reviews of their work. Art is a great way to encourage creativity and promote thinking. Great options are available online, so if your school is cutting back on their art programs, make sure to check these out.
For more information on art schools in Charleston, SC, contact Art Connects Art Therapy.