Loreal Hemenway Stephanie Osmundson
Name
Bring the Art, Bring the Joy (Pre-K)
Session Type
Workshop
Track
Pre-K / TK Experience
Description

Unlock the power of student engagement by integrating simple yet impactful art techniques and materials into your general education classroom! You don’t need to be an artist to harness the transformative potential of art in education. In this session, we’ll explore how hands-on, creative strategies can breathe life into standards-based learning, making concepts more accessible and memorable for all students. By weaving art into everyday lessons, teachers can inspire curiosity, foster critical thinking, and create an interactive learning environment where students are not just passive learners, but active, creative participants.

For young children, particularly Pre-K students, the benefits of arts and crafts go far beyond just fun and creativity. Engaging in art activities helps young learners develop essential fine motor skills, improve hand-eye coordination, and strengthen their ability to focus. In addition, arts and crafts provide an outlet for emotional expression and offer a safe space for children to explore their feelings through color, texture, and design. These activities also promote problem-solving and critical thinking as children experiment with different materials and techniques, testing out their ideas and discovering new ways to create. By integrating art into early childhood education, teachers can foster a love for learning, enhance cognitive development, and cultivate confidence in young students—all while making learning feel like an exciting adventure. Join us to discover how easy it is to bring art into your classroom in meaningful, exciting ways that will captivate and motivate your students!

 

Common Core Standards
Pre-K Skills

Rules and Routines: Follows simple rules and routines with adult assistance and takes care of classroom materials.

Emotional Awareness: Begins to understand the connection between emotions and behaviors.

Focus and Attention: Remains focused on teacher-led group activities for up to 20 minutes.

Creative Expression: Engages with various art materials for sensory experiences, exploration, and creative self-expression.

Fine Motor Development: Demonstrates control over tasks requiring small-muscle strength and coordination.
Session Research
Bautista, A., Moreno-Núñez, A., Bull, R., Amsah, F., & Koh, S. F. (2018). Arts-Related Pedagogies in Preschool Education

Novaković, S. (2015). Preschool Teacher's Role in the Art Activities of Early and Preschool Age Children.

Coholic, D.A. (2011). Exploring the Feasibility and Benefits of Arts-Based Mindfulness-Based Practices with Young People in Need: Aiming to Improve Aspects of Self-Awareness and Resilience.

Youngblood, A., & Crawford, J. (2023). Supporting Educators With OT Self-Regulation Resources for K-8 Grade Students to Increase Their Successful Participation in the Classroom