Growing up, every day I would look forward to going to art class for a nice break from learning about basic math and the history of America. We had different projects every couple of weeks and I’m pretty sure my mom still has every project me and my brother have ever made.
Art and physical education are extremely important for elementary school students but unfortunately, the budget for these classes is the most frequently cut.
Art is a mixture of motor skills, the right brain, and logical thinking. At a young age, we develop in a certain way that shapes who we are when we are older and our brains develop. The activities we do and the people we surround ourselves with influence our growth and choices. The things we are taught effect us in later life, arts and language to name a few.
Our brains are said to have two sides: the left is the more logical side, and the right is the irrational, creative side. We use them both for separate things but in school, we primarily use the logical portions of our brains to solve mental math, memory, and other systems used in our every day lives that we will commonly forget if we don't use them every day.
Art uses visuals along with problem solving and physical action. Our right brain is triggered which gives the left side a much-needed break and especially at a young age in the prime of development it's important to use all aspects of it.
Art also uses visual logic with colors and arrangement with all types of media, working the senses. Kids need their fine motor skills to be activated and with art, they use their bodies and they feel good while creating.
Another important aspect of creating at this age is confidence. As we all know, elementary school isn't easy, especially while going through the early stages of puberty and emotions. While creating, kids feel good about themselves and they're transported to another world where they can escape.
Imagination is key and true personalities reveal themselves. Art is a beautiful way for expression and for kids, it is therapy. Art has been used as therapy for emotionally distraught kids, post-traumatic stress disorder, sexual assault victims, mental disabilities, and for all ages. Being creative allows focus to be altered into visual emotions rather than built up stress making it a perfect outlet.
I personally know how effective art can be in individuals that need an escape. The work I create is a way for me to get my emotions across indirectly which can sometimes be easier than words. Using art as words is crucial for those that are emotionally broken and struggling and can sometimes save lives. Art has zero boundaries.
In today's education system, budget cuts are being made left and right from elementary schools to colleges. The public school system has been threatened multiple times throughout the past decade and tuition has been on a steady incline for years.
These cost changes have affected creative programs that are important for kids to succeed and have a steady mental growth. Don't let the creativity stop and fight for our education system.
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