In an educational system highly focused on developing the next generation’s set of great scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians (STEM careers), some people question why kids need art. But in fact, art and art literacy help students develop a healthy curiosity, prompting them to ask more questions to understand how the world around them works. And that’s just the beginning of understanding why art matters as much as science, math and reading in their school curriculum. Today we’re taking a closer look at why art education is valuable.
Art Literacy Is Vital to a Well-Rounded Class Curriculum
As another school year begins, it’s a good time to discuss the importance of art and art literacy in a child’s well-rounded education and social development. Naturally, subjects like math, reading, and science and technology are vital to the children who are learning them, and further, this learning also supports the continued growth of healthy families, communities, and society as a whole.
But with the current hyper-focus on the value of these core topics, there exists the temptation to minimize the role of art in accomplishing the same goals. This can clearly be seen in how funding and grants for arts and music programs have been cut over the years—yet art has always been an integral part of a dynamic learning environment.
Arts integration is one way teachers today can use art to reinforce learning in subjects like social studies, science, math and reading. To give you an idea, we have an informative and helpful guide to integrating creative arts into classroom curriculum for educators.
Why Does Art Matter as Much as Math and Reading?
Teaching art is so beneficial to a student’s academic career and their life outside of school. Much like physical education (PE) helps students train their bodies, art and art literacy are key to training their minds.
Similarly to the discipline they gain from physical activities, their minds develop a sharpness and discipline when engaging with art. As well, both art and physical activities are usually not seen as burdensome by the children themselves.
When kids create art and develop art literacy in school classrooms, it brings out the best in them. Art matters as much as math and reading because these subjects work best hand-in-hand.
Top Reasons Art in the Classroom Matters for Students
Art supports both academic growth and personal development. Below are some of the most meaningful ways it benefits children in school.
- Art activities help children develop the critical thinking skills necessary to advance in reading, problem solving, and in understanding the scientific method.
- With arts integration, students create what is considered “art” to learn about other topics. Think about making volcanoes or tornadoes in a bottle in earth science. And using activities like making paper helps them understand how people lived throughout history.
- Fine motor skills and community skills develop as students work on art projects. They begin to understand perception, context and perspective. Children also learn to work together towards a goal on group art activities.
- Integrating art into core curriculum learning helps foster student engagement. The more involved children are with lessons, the more information they may retain.
- Art is also for every student, regardless of ability. For instance, lessons can be adjusted and tailored to student needs, increasing accessibility for students who may need help with those core subjects. Art may be the doorway that leads to better understanding.
Art isn’t just an elective or an after-school program. Art is a pillar of children’s education, and we’re here to help provide resources so every child can experience it.
Integrate Free Art Lessons for Children Into Your Classroom
Golden Roads Arts knows today’s teachers face many expectations, and we’re here as a source for you. To assist teachers in their educational mission, we offer free online art lessons for elementary and middle school students. Browse our free art lessons to supplement your curriculum today!
