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The Benefit of the Arts

Where have the arts in education gone? Over the past several years, we’ve all seen the trend: schools cutting music, art and theater curricula. The irony is that incorporating the arts have been known to enhance a child’s academic performance.

1. Creativity – The arts is so important because it teaches kids to express themselves in a different form that’s more communicative than math or science. Thinking outside the box will pay off big throughout a child’s life.
2. Improved academic performance. Compelling research shows the arts improve academic performance. According to PBS, young people who participate regularly in the arts, 3 hours a day 3 days a week for one full year are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, to participate in a math and science fair or to win an award for writing an essay or poem.
3. Decision Making. The arts can also teach kids how to be more decisive. How should I draw my character? How should I sing this song to express a certain mood? The arts strengthens problem solving and critical thinking skills.
4. Motor skills. For younger kids, learning to hold a paintbrush, or instrument, will help develop a child’s fine motor skills.
5. Visual learning. Children need to know more about the world than just what they can learn through text and numbers. Art education teaches kids how to interpret and analyze using visual information.
6. Confidence. The adage that there are no mistakes in art means there is no one right answer. Whether its on a canvas or on stage, a child involved in the arts will learn to lean on his own instincts and become confident this way.

If there’s a caveat to introducing your child to sports and the arts, it’s in finding the right fit. For your child to truly thrive, parents need to resist the urge to force kids into something that goes against their natural instincts. Once you’ve exposed them to a variety of opportunities, let your child take the lead in what he or she would like to pursue. It’s also equally crucial not to over-schedule your child with activities. Without proper rest and downtime, no child will find enjoyment in extracurricular activities.

Deborah Song