About Learning Arts and Crafts for Kids

Teaching arts and crafts to preschoolers is a fun activity that is more about the process than the end product. From age three to five, children learn shapes and colors, and the technique required to produce desired results. Children love art because it helps them explore and experiment which gives them a sense of accomplishment and independence.

Workspace

Prepare the workspace bearing in mind that children at this age can be quite messy. Cover the table or space with a plastic or paper tablecloth to make clean up easy. Use non-toxic materials such as flour glue and water paint. 

Accessibility

Separate items into different containers for each group and ensure each child has enough materials to avoid arguments. Make sure you have extra sheets of paper for those who will require more than one.  Prepare all of the craft materials beforehand keep children from becoming distracted.

Creativity

Allow the children to be creative.  Let them create projects that have no expected results. This will help them to explore individual interests and give them freedom to decide on what they want to create.  Remember there is no right or wrong way.

Create an Experience

Listen to the child and always be positive. Avoid correcting mistakes but offer suggestions when asked. When the child is happy with the results, share their joy. Your response will affect the child’s experience of art.  Display the child’s crafts and artwork upon completion. Hanging up the complete project validates the child and gives him or her a sense of accomplishment. This will encourage the child to create more projects, which may, in turn, lead to real interest and talent.

Build Self Esteem

Complement the child on the art produced. Avoid asking the child “what is this?” Doing so may make them feel you do not like or understand their work. Instead encourage them to talk about the process. They should be able to volunteer information on what they have created.