Outdoor play can be one of the best, most natural inspirations for creativity in children. As teachers, it is so important to allow the time and space for observation and exploration. “When children go out to play they often gather things they find. They select some of these and build them into new forms. The selecting and building is a spontaneous art experience.” (Lord. 1996) Children are naturally creative beings and we, as teachers, have the opportunity to assist them in their creative development. There are so many skills that can be developed through the cultivation of art. Some of these skills include organization, invention, self-discipline, patience, as well as creating outlets for their imagination.
Materials can excite the imagination. “Collage is a two dimensional expression which nurture a child’s desire to touch….” (Lord. 1996) They create their own designs with various materials. Younger children tend to focus more on the materials, textures, and colors. Its important not to overwhelm young children with too many material choices, but if there is a variety, that is the perfect opportunity to work on organization and categorization. An exciting aspect about collages is that they can be both abstract and representative. However the children choose to create, in regards to collages, they should be encouraged to work in their own way.
Construction is a three-dimensional art for and “will enlarge a child’s concepts of form and space relationships.” (Lord. 1996) Construction can provide the opportunity for invention because a variety of materials can be put together in so many ways to create new forms. Blocks can be used with young children as an early material for construction. Building structure, regardless of the materials provided, can help children develop space form relationships. When providing additional construction materials for young children, it’s important to have variety with both flexible and resisting objects. Construction projects can really help young children develop early experimentation skills with trial and error. What pieces fit together? What larger shapes can I make with these smaller shapes?
With both construction and collage, when working with young preschool aged children, repetition is key. Children gain confidence through doing the same thing over and over again. So, providing the same materials on multiple occasions, and plenty of space and time to create, is ideal.
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