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11: Visual and Performing Arts

  • Page ID
    279267
  • This page is a draft and under active development. Please forward any questions, comments, and/or feedback to the ASCCC OERI (oeri@asccc.org).

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    Learning Objectives
    • Formulate effective strategies for working with school-age children.
    • Evaluate current educational and developmental theories and teaching methods relating to school-age children of diverse backgrounds and needs, including children with disabilities in connection to the arts.
    • Describe developmentally appropriate expectations for school-age children at various stages of development.

    An Introduction to Arts Education

    Arts education plays a crucial role in fostering physical, cognitive, and emotional development in children. When children engage in activities like drawing, dancing, or playing musical instruments, they develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. For example, activities like painting or sculpting require children to use small muscles in their hands, which helps them build physical dexterity and precision. Similarly, learning to play an instrument or participating in dance involves movement and body control, which enhances gross motor skills and spatial awareness. These physical skills are foundational for overall development and contribute to a child's ability to engage in a variety of daily tasks, from writing to playing sports.

    Cognitively, arts education provides children with opportunities to enhance problem-solving skills and critical thinking. For instance, when children compose a piece of music, solve a complex drawing, or perform a play, they learn to make decisions, think creatively, and consider different perspectives. Art encourages children to experiment, take risks, and learn from their mistakes, fostering a growth mindset. Studies have shown that children who participate in the arts tend to perform better academically because they are more adept at thinking critically, organizing ideas, and developing strong memory skills. Furthermore, the arts support language development as children often expand their vocabulary and narrative abilities through storytelling, acting, or analyzing lyrics.

    Emotionally, the arts provide a powerful outlet for self-expression, helping children process and understand their feelings. Engaging in creative activities allows children to express emotions they may not be able to articulate verbally. Whether through painting, writing, or performing, children can explore their identities and gain confidence in their ability to express themselves. The arts also provide a sense of accomplishment and pride, boosting self-esteem. Additionally, participating in group art activities, such as theater or music ensembles, promotes social-emotional skills, such as teamwork, empathy, and communication. Overall, arts education helps children develop emotionally by nurturing their ability to handle emotions, relate to others, and navigate the complexities of their inner worlds.


    This page titled 11: Visual and Performing Arts is shared under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Kerry Diaz & Tenessa Sanchez.