Expressive Arts and Design
The development of children's artistic and cultural awareness supports their imagination and creativity. It is important that children have regular opportunities to engage with the arts, enabling them to explore and play with a wide range of media and materials.
Expressive arts are important in early years education for many reasons, including:
Communication
Children can use the arts to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas. They can also use the arts to share their responses to what they see, hear, and experience.
Emotional wellbeing
Creative expression can help children's emotional wellbeing and reduce anxiety.
Imagination and creativity
Developing artistic and cultural awareness can support children's imagination and creativity.
Understanding the world
Children can use their senses to explore natural materials and learn about the world.
Language development
Children can develop their vocabulary and communication skills through the arts.
Fine motor skills
Children can develop their fine motor skills, such as muscular strength and hand-eye coordination, through construction with different materials.