From the scribbles of toddlers to the sophisticated drawings of teenagers, the purposes of art for children encompass various functions. Purposes of art for children change as the individual grows and matures. While art activities sometimes can be considered simple pastimes, in reality the purposes of art for children run much deeper.
Developmental Indicators
Viktor Lowenfeld, author of one of the most influential art education texts of the 20th century, "Creative and Mental Growth," concludes that children's art develops in predictable stages. Scribbles, the earliest developmental indicator, show spontaneous and uncontrolled marks that suggest a rudimentary attempt at self-expression. Subsequent artwork made as the child grows up becomes more controlled and reflects developing cognitive skills as well as personal attempts to visually communicate ideas.
Visual Communication
The purpose of art becomes a more sophisticated method of self expression when the child advances past the scribbling stage. By the second stage of creative growth, children's drawings begin to show recognizable features. Young children often tell stories about what they draw. Visual communication continues to be refined as the child ages. More details are added to works of art and compositions become more complex. In later stages of creative development, children's artwork often exhibits attempts to show reality.
Experimentation
A natural part of artistic growth is experimentation. Working with age-appropriate art materials provides opportunities for children to investigate how different media respond. Younger children require larger drawing tools that are easy to grip. Older children should be provided more adult-like art materials---for example, fine-tip paint brushes. Remember that the purpose of art for younger learners is the process of simple mark making while the purpose for older children is the end product.
Critical Thinking Skills
Esteemed arts education researcher Elliot Eisner says: "The arts teach children that in complex forms of problem solving purposes are seldom fixed, but change with circumstance and opportunity." As children grow and mark making becomes more intentional, critical thinking through art comes into play. The purpose of art for older children becomes an occasion for making decisions such as the best color to use or the placement of objects on a picture plane. This decision-making process contributes to the development of refined critical thinking skills.
Tolerance
In a global 21st century, learners should be exposed to the ideas and beliefs that are different than their own. The purpose of art in this context helps children to become tolerant of dissimilarities. Learning to value the artwork of others teaches children to respect cultural and social differences. Visualizing the world through the eyes of others and honoring multiple perspectives contributes to better citizenship.
Warning
Buy only those products labeled with the Art and Creative Material Institute's seal of safety when purchasing art supplies for children. This seal assures that art products are nontoxic and safe for use by children of all ages.
