Making art with our children and encouraging them to make art on their own might seem like it's just a fun thing to do or a way to get our kids to do something that doesn't involve a screen or electronic devices. And, yes, yes, it is fun, but art is also a great way to help our children develop their artistic and creative abilities, which will serve them well throughout life. Making art with kids might seem like its own reward, but it actually offers rewards that we don't even consider, but are important for our children's development.
More from MamásLatinas: Clever and beautiful crafts made out of recycled materials
Like what? Well, it helps younger kids develop their fine motor skills, which they will need for handwriting, using scissors, and tying their shoelaces. It's also a great way to introduce words and colors to children. Believe it or not, art can also help a children develop critical-thinking skills because they have to make choices and solve problems. You can also use art to share your culture and other cultures with your kids. And perhaps the most valuable skill that comes from using art to develop your child's artistic side is that it helps them tap into and stay tapped into their imagination and inventiveness.
"The kind of people society needs to make it move forward are thinking, inventive people who seek new ways and improvements, not people who can only follow directions," says arts educator and author MaryAnn Kohl. And now that we are all clear on how great art is for kids, you should also know that you don't have to send them to art classes or get a professional to help them make art. The truth is that we are all artists, so here are some art projects you can make at home with your kids even if you don't fancy yourself much of an artist.