By counting items and colors, they even cover basic maths. When children experiment with materials, they dabble in science. Most important perhaps, when kids feel good while they are creating, art helps boost self-confidence. 

And children who feel able to experiment and to make mistakes feel free to invent new ways of thinking, which extends well beyond creating artwork. 

At our holiday club, we prepare for a mess! With a dedicated art space where the children are free to experiment with different pencils, brushes and colours, they are able to explore their imagination and interpret the guidance we give for each activity, to suit their own style.

We vary what we draw or paint and how we do it, from a traditional sketch or painting on paper, to rocks, canvas and various fabrics and ceramics using specialist pencils, pens, paints and brushes.

Children naturally connect thoughts, words and images long before they master the skill of writing – drawing and painting is a great way to learn in a fun and creative way! 

Educators tell us that art encourages fine motor skills, neural development, and problem-solving abilities and that it can be used effectively to teach and understand other key subjects such as reading, writing, maths, and science. 

Therapists tell us that art is valuable because it allows children to process their world, to deal with sometimes scary emotions in a safe way, and because it gives them critical sensory input. 

Artists tell us that art is important for its own sake—as a source of beauty and expression, as well as simply for the process of creating.

Kids tell us that art is fun, an activity they enjoy.

Parents tell us that art is vital to their families because it keeps everyone engaged and happy and helps with the sometimes difficult transitions of the day.

– Excerpt from The Artful Parent: Simple Ways to Fill Your Family’s Life with Art & Creativity by Jean Van’t Hul