Creativity
In a Montessori preschool Creativity is more than just the visual arts. Creativity is the freedom to choose to be creative whenever a child’s inner urges directs them. In a Montessori preschool Creativity is nurtured in many places. In the arts and crafts corner a permanently set up area for the visual arts. For creative imaginative play the Home Corner inside the classroom and the Mud Kitchen in the garden are popular areas.
What is the art and craft area in a Montessori preschool?
In our Montessori preschools there is a special area permanently set up for art activities. The painting table has aprons nearby. This is where most of the activities involving paint or glue occur. A teacher will be stationed at the table to guide children to complete the activity. Typically this will be part of a planned theme or cultural event such as Christmas or Chinese new year. The art area is always accessible by children throughout the day. Materials are available on low level shelves. Equipment includes coloured pencils, glue spreaders and scissors, both left and right handed. A painting easel and drying rack are also in this area and fresh paper is applied when each child finishes their work, ready for the next child. When dry their work is transferred to their basket ready to be taken home. All art items are named by the child if their writing skills can achieve this. The children take them home to share with their parents.
How else is creativity encouraged in a Montessori preschool?
Creativity is not limited to making things. There are other forms of creativity, visual arts are only one. Music and movement allow children to express themselves in other ways. Role playing is another important part of child development. The Home corner inside the classroom and in the Mud Kitchen in the garden are popular places for this creative activity.
Why is creativity important in a Montessori preschool?
Creativity is important for children especially during their early development. Art activities engage your child’s senses in open-ended play and develop cognitive, social-emotional and multi-sensory skills. The activities strengthen their fingers and promote dexterity needed to hold a pencil for writing and literacy.
