Approximately 75% of young children currently participate in U.S. preschool programs. When parents examine their preschool options, they may consider how close a school is in proximity to their home, the overall cost, the experience of the staff, and the overall reputation of the program. While the academic curriculum is important to take into account, a good preschool program comes down to more than traditional offerings. Families should also concern themselves with whether their children will gain exposure to the arts in their preschool program.
Some families may not prioritize artistic endeavors in preschool, but the reality is that this early experience with music, painting, dance, theatre, and more can help shape young minds in the greatest of ways. Let’s take a closer look at why the best Bergen County preschools emphasize arts education.
Cognitive Development
Young children form a staggering amount of new neural connections all the time. When they’re exposed to the arts, their young minds are challenged to take in all that fascinating information and process it.
When we are involved in the creation of art, regardless of its medium, we use many or all of our senses. When we use these senses, our brain synapses are stimulated and we learn about ourselves and the world around us.
Music, in particular, seems to have immense power when it comes to the development of cognitive skills. Data indicates that children who are involved in music from an early age develop certain connections that other children don’t, including increased auditory processing.
Even if musical skill isn’t high on your list of priorities, being able to understand speech should be. But whether your child shows an interest in music, visual arts, or stage performance, this involvement can only benefit their minds as they grow.
Cultural Awareness
There’s no doubt that we live in an extremely diverse society. That’s what so many of us love about living in the melting pot known as the United States of America.
Being exposed to all kinds of art from all different places around the world promotes an early understanding — not only of traditions but of the people they meet every day. The more they can understand that our differences make us special, rather than scary, the more well-adjusted they’ll be as they get older.
The key to living in harmony with others is awareness and understanding. Art acts as a universal language that everyone can express. Therefore, it’s a fantastic way to teach children about the world around them and to promote tolerance.
Plus, it gives kids a way to express themselves and share what’s special about them!
Motor Skill Development
Art absolutely has a positive impact on the mind, which is why you should consider this area of education when looking at your preschool options.
But whether or not you realize it, art can have an effect on the physical body, too. Even basic actions like cutting a piece of paper with a pair of scissors or coloring a picture with a crayon can help children develop their fine motor skills.
Painting, sculpting, dancing, singing, and playing musical instruments will make these motor skills even stronger. They can help develop dexterity, coordination, and much more.
There are many other advantages to being involved in the arts from an early age, ranging from improved decision-making to better language skills. No matter what, your preschool options should address the importance of the arts and playtime. Instead of standing in opposition to academic endeavors, these areas of experience will support your child’s other learning.
Need help with finding the right preschool that emphasizes involvement in the arts? Look no further than Lily Pond Country Day School. To learn more or schedule a tour, contact us today.
