Art education is important for a well-rounded development of a child. However, most of the time, arts seem to take a backseat with more importance given to subjects like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics).
Now its up to parents, caregivers and educators to find alternative ways to provide art education to children.
The Changing Face of Education
Art education seems to be disappearing from most schools, with science taking most of the focus. One of the most common reasons provided is lack of funding.
A focus on standards has also been instrumental in reducing educational focus on the arts due to schools competing for high marks on testing.
Even when a school gets funding, its the STEM programs that gets beefed up with art-related learning initiatives taking a backseat.
STEAM: Adding Arts to STEM
Although, it’s clear that all we need to focus on math, technology and science again in our schools. However, it shouldn’t be at the expense of arts. The skills you learn through ‘Arts’, like creativity are just as crucial.
There’s no doubt that Technology produces art products like digital cameras and musical instruments, but art provides science with one-of-a-kind insight.
So make sure your child gets exposure to both science and arts from an early age.
Types of Art Education and Their Benefits
One of the most important benefits of art education is that it encourages Creativity and Innovation, a trait that is highly valued by employers.
Art-related exposure and learning have shown to greatly improve physical, cognitive, social and emotional development among children – right from early childhood through college.
Children learn to communicate better, handle constructive feedback well and learn to collaborate with others.
Finally, the arts improve a child’s dedication & self-discipline.
Many have started acknowledging these benefits and see a strong correlation between arts education and academic achievement.
Also Read: Musical Instruments for kids
Keeps Children Balanced
Children need arts education as a part of a comprehensive and well-rounded education. Parents, and educators need to incorporate more art education programs for children.
Its important that kids get exposed to dance, music, theater and the visual arts in early childhood.
Nothing is more influential and fun than arts-related education. If your community has a children’s arts academy, make sure you enroll your kids as early as possible.
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