Children who create art from a young age develop problem-solving skills that will support them throughout their lives. At Golden Road Arts we produce free online art lessons for kids that blend creative expression with insightful learning experiences. From color selection to composition, the decisions that children make when first creating their art help develop their ability to analyze challenges and find creative solutions.
Why Art Matters for a Child’s Problem-Solving Development
Problem-solving is a vital skill that contributes to a child’s academic success, confidence and social skills. Here are some of the ways that creating art can develop children’s ability to tackle problems in all areas of life.
Improve Decision-Making Skills
Almost every art project will involve making small decisions that contribute to a bigger goal. From choosing colors and materials to the concepts and techniques, the various choices made will change the outcome of the art project. Making these decisions in a positive, creative environment gives kids the confidence they need to weigh up their options and commit to a choice.
Learn to Plan Ahead
While “art” may feel like it’s in a different category than other subjects, it involves many of the same planning and coordination challenges. For instance, children will need to manage their time effectively and allocate their resources carefully as they adapt to new challenges. Such skills are certainly applicable when studying other school subjects—they can also be used every day throughout the journey of life.
Become Flexible and Learn to Experiment
Creating art at home as a family creates a positive environment where flexibility is encouraged. Many great artworks have been created through a process of experimentation. While the original plan might not work out as first intended, making changes to the colors, materials or techniques can transform a piece.
Understand the Power of Incremental Improvements
Artists often start a piece with a simple sketch, then refine it, add more detail and introduce layers and shading. Learning these techniques teaches a child that small changes can lead to significant improvements. Essentially, children learn the value of making gradual improvements and adjustments, rather than assuming that tough challenges require a single perfect solution.
Improve Visual Thinking
Shapes, colors, proportions and patterns are all key components of art. When a child translates an idea from their imagination to paper or canvas, they are using spatial reasoning and visual problem-solving skills that improve their ability to tackle complex challenges.
Develop Academic, Emotional and Social Skills
Group art projects encourage collaboration, communication and teamwork. When children work together on creative challenges they learn to share ideas, appreciate different perspectives and compromise on solutions. Kids need art to develop key skills for solving problems and building confidence in their creative decisions.
Free Online Art Lessons to Develop Problem-Solving Skills
Regular art projects help elementary and middle school children develop creativity, problem-solving and fine motor skills. At Golden Road Arts, we make free art tutorials to help children improve their creative skills at home and in the classroom. Watch free art lessons today.
