All of our Preschool classrooms are stocked with a variety of art materials such as watercolors, Cray-Pas oil pastels, crayons, markers, clay, and tempera paints. Self-directed art experiences – where children are choosing their own materials and making a plan about what they want to create – support learning in several ways. By drawing, making collages with glue, and using watercolors to paint, children learn about shape, color, and texture. They are practicing making decisions about what to make and what materials they will use. Sometimes, problems can occur with a friend (sharing, for example) or with the material itself, and the support of a teacher is needed. Fine motor skills (like those needed to button coats and to write eventually) are enhanced by cutting with scissors, holding a crayon, or sculpting with clay. Another added value of art areas in classrooms is that children are able to observe what their friends are creating and learn to appreciate the artwork of others.

New vocabulary words are introduced when children discuss their work with adults. Our favorite phrase, “Tell me about this,” leaves space for the child to share his/her thoughts without judgement. Young children often create things that are symbolic of something else; for example, something they have just built in the block center or a flower they noticed on their way into the building. The practice of using symbols will become important when they are learning to read. Art can also enhance science concepts when colors are mixed or adding paint to water can create changes. 

Creating art in any form helps children develop their imaginations and practice many skills for learning. Our goal is to give children the confidence to express themselves through art and to feel a part of a creative community of learners whenever they create something new.

Summer Camp Information
We are beginning to receive inquiries about our ever-popular “Camp Curious” summer camp sessions. This optional camp is for children ages two through rising kindergarteners. This year’s program will feature four-weekly sessions. Here’s a sneak peak at our themes for the summer:

June 1st – June 4th
Creekside Explorers

June 8th – June 11th
Space Alliance Camp
Catch a Star (two-year-olds) 

June 15th – June 18th
Step Inside a Story
Nursery Rhymes (two-year-olds) 

June 22nd – June 26th
Splashing Around Campus

All Preschool camps are from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.