By Frank Bublitz
One of the world’s most memorable gifts are the ceramic tray and the hands dipped in plaster that kids make for their parents during the holidays.
A parent may view that oddly shaped and barely glazed plate or tray as the work of Michaelangelo. That’s a good thing for both the child and the parent.
The child benefits from doing something for the ones he loves. The loved ones have something they can see, touch, and maybe even smell to remind them of the child for whom they would give everything they have.
But the physical act of art is important as well! It’s not the style, creativity, or perfection of the craft that is important. Rather, the problem solving and the hand-eye coordination needed to be used by the little Rembrandt that helps their brains grow as big and strong as their muscles will someday become.
Children who use their hands and minds for creative endeavors will help train both for success in the more mundane things they will need to do as they grow. Not to mention that the confidence built by the process of creativity can last for their entire lives!
So parents and loved ones should encourage children and young adults to put down the screens and do screen printing…pick up the scissors and put down the Switch…or get out the coloring paper and get to creating!
It will help them develop their memories, and give you memories to last a lifetime!
