51 Benefits of Arts Education for Kids – Guest Blog via WeTheParents.org

What does it take for children to grow into happy, well-rounded, and confident people?

Well, according to 93% of American parents, one important factor is that kids have a rich and diverse education that combines both academic subjects, like math and literacy, with creative and expressive ones, such as music, visual arts, and drama.

If you are wondering whether or not to get your kiddos involved in something arty, this visual guide by WeTheParents.org gives 51 reasons why it’s a great idea!

Character & Personality

Learning art, drama or music can nurture personal qualities that will help children to become successful both at work and relationships. That’s because they:

• Build confidence
• Rais self-esteem
• Teach perseverance
• Ignite inner motivation
• Benefit emotional development

Brain & Mind

Learning creative subjects is good for the brain too. That’s because they:

• Develop cognitive ability
• Increase creativity
• Raise IQ score
• Boosts concentration
• Improve critical thinking

Happiness & Well-being

Getting involved in the arts has been shown to improve happiness and well-being. In fact, Arts Education can:

• Inspire positive thinking
• Nurture self-discovery
• Increase civic engagement
• Reduce stress, anxiety, and depression
• Encourage relaxation

Social Skills

Success in life is greatly dependant on our ability to work with and get along with others. Arts help kids in this area by:

• Teaching collaboration
• Increasing empathy
• Improving conflict resolution
• Benefitting emotional regulation
• Promoting acceptance of new people and ideas

Academic Performance

Studies have shown that certain types of Arts Education have a positive effect on academic subjects. They can:

• Help with math
• Raise literacy
• Boosts creative writing
• Improve story comprehension
• Increase enrolment in higher education

Physical Development

The benefits of arts go beyond the brain. Here are some ways they benefit the body too:

• Develop fine motor skills
• Improve gross motor skills
• Refine eye-hand coordination
• Raise ability and confidence using tools and equipment

These are just a few of the many ways that Arts Education can help your kids to get ahead and flourish.

And remember, even if your school doesn’t offer Arts Education, or you’re on a tight budget, don’t sweat it. Whether it be drama games, craft projects, or music tutorials, there are tons of low-cost and free ideas online, so you shouldn’t have any problem getting your kids exposed to arts. Just have fun and get them involved where you can; even a little creativity goes a long way.

Learn more at wetheparents.org/arts-education.