Expressing your kids’ creativity through art is essential for their brain development. It enhances their problem-solving skills, boosts their focus and concentration, improves their motor skills, and builds their self-confidence.
As parents, you should be part of this process and be with your kids every step of the way. So how do you connect with your kids through art? Here are some simple yet effective tips on how you can bond with your children while letting them showcase their creativity at the same time.
1. Provide your kids with the space and tools to do art.
Setting up a designated art space for your kids and providing them with art supplies show that you support them and encourage them to be creative. A dedicated art place in your home also establishes consistency and keeps art materials in one place.
Like it or not, kids being creative can get quite chaotic, so having their own space where they could let their imagination run wild and free without worrying about making a mess will be beneficial both for you and your kids.
It is a win-win situation: your kids will not have to go to the kitchen counter or the dining table to do their art, so you only have to clean up after their designated art space.
2. Set a schedule for your kids’ art activities.
Aside from establishing consistency by designating an art space at home for your kids, also set a schedule for when they can do art activities. Sticking to a schedule will make it easier for them to turn art-making into a habit and also allow you to take time out of your day to bond with your kids.
Kids love repetition, and once art-making is already a habit to them, they will be able to further practice their imagination and creative skills, which will greatly help them in their future endeavors as they grow up.
3. Ask your kids about their art.
Asking your kids about their art shows that you are interested in their creation. Whether it is a realistic drawing or just a messy scribble on a piece of paper, allow your kids to tell you in their own words what their art is about.
Letting your kids explain their art also encourages them to develop their creative process and refines their ability to discuss things. It also allows them to reflect on how they came up with their art and enhances their critical thinking skills.
4. Do art activities together.
Doing art activities together with your kids gives them a sense of support, knowing that you want to participate in their art activities. Whether you do it with your kids at home or you both attend a painting workshop, the important thing is to do something to reassure them that you are willing to get creative with them.
Not only is this going to develop your kids’ imagination and creativity, but it will also strengthen your relationship with them. Use art activities as a way of building their artistic skills while fostering a solid bond with them.
5. Encourage your kids to express themselves through art.
Not all children can be eloquent about their emotions, and sometimes they can only express it through other mediums like art, so just let them draw, paint, sculpt, or fold and reassure them that whatever they are doing is okay. It will also test and practice to develop their patience.
You can look for an art franchise that offers art classes and art camps, and if your kids express interest in participating in those activities, enroll them so they can attend. This will allow them to not only express themselves but also explore their art styles and hone their social skills as they interact with other kids.
Giving them an avenue to let their emotions out will develop their trust in you and will make it easier for them to open up to you as they get older.
Final Thoughts
Kids making art can be messy, but developing their creativity early on is crucial to their overall growth and well-being. So as parents, it is your responsibility to help them realize their potential and discover their artistic side. By embracing their mess, you are not only supporting your kids but also connecting with them through art.