By: Janice Russell
Exploring one’s creative abilities through the arts can provide an excellent outlet for self-expression for children with learning disabilities. It can also enhance their cognitive and social skills while improving overall academic performance, among many other benefits.
The problem is that finding ways to engage kids in the arts can be challenging when they learn differently. Below, LAAEYC guest writer, Janice Russell of
discusses some of the best kinds of art and how each can benefit your child. And we even provide tips for getting them started!
Painting/Drawing
Painting and drawing are wonderful ways to enhance a child’s motor skills and creativity. These disciplines can significantly improve your child’s concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills.
Help your child experiment with different colors, shapes, and techniques. You might even incorporate drawing into your child’s academic learning by having them illustrate concepts they’re learning in school. Keep in mind that saving your child’s artwork as PDFs is a fantastic way to preserve their creative masterpieces for years to come.
With the help of a PDF file converter, you can easily scan and convert various formats to ensure each unique piece is safely stored digitally. This not only helps prevent physical damage or loss but also allows you to create an organized archive of your child’s artistic journey. Plus, you’ll be able to share these cherished memories with friends and family effortlessly. The best part is that you only need basic computer literacy in order to use a PDF file converter!
Music
Music is one of the most powerful tools for stimulating a child’s brain and enhancing their cognitive skills for children with learning disabilities. Participating in music can sharpen their language, reading, and memory skills (among others).
Introduce your child to different types of music, songs, and instruments for a strong start. Encourage them to sing or play a simple instrument at home. Enrolling them in music classes at their school or community center is also worth considering!
Dancing
If you want to help your child develop their coordination, balance, and motor skills, it’s hard to beat dancing. You might also find that dancing boosts your child’s confidence and social skills while reducing their anxiety. Dance with your child along to their favorite songs, or enroll them in a dance class that caters to children with learning disabilities.
Crafting
Crafting is a fun and relaxing activity that lets children express creativity while sharpening their fine motor skills. They can also improve your child’s attention span and coordination. Help them explore different materials like clay, paper, and beads.
You can also incorporate crafting into your child’s academic learning by having them create visual aids or hands-on projects for their schoolwork. Or, you can have them make their own crafts to supplement their education. Here are a few ideas:
Homemade playdough: Combine flour, salt, cream of tartar, warm water, and food coloring to produce a fun and versatile play material for your child to mold into various shapes and objects.
Paper plate animals: Your child can make their favorite animals by using paper plates, paint, markers, glue, and construction paper. All they need to do is shape, cut, and attach the various features (e.g., eyes, ears, noses, etc.) onto the plates!
DIY bird feeders: Awaken your child’s love for nature by creating simple bird feeders with pine cones, peanut butter, birdseed, and string. Have them spread peanut butter onto the pine cones, roll it in the birdseed, and hang it outside to attract their feathered friends!
Wrapping Up
It might feel like hard work at first, but engaging your child in the arts can prove to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for the both of you. Exploring the different types of art and incorporating them into your child’s education and daily routine can go a long way toward boosting their cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Remain patient, and help your child discover their creative abilities at their own pace. You might be surprised at how quickly you notice your child thriving and excelling in the arts!
Would you like to read more helpful content or learn about our early education resources? Visit LAAEYC.org today!