Why Arts Education Is Crucial, and Who's Doing It Best

Art and music are key to student development.

January 28, 2009 By Fran Smith

"Art does not solve problems, but makes us aware of their existence," sculptor Magdalena Abakanowicz has said. Arts education, on the other hand, does solve problems. Years of research show that it's closely linked to almost everything that we as a nation say we want for our children and demand from our schools: academic achievement, social and emotional development, civic engagement, and equitable opportunity. Read more....

The Top 10 Skills Children Learn From the Arts

Posted by Lisa Phillips, Nov 26, 2012

1. Creativity - Being able to think on your feet, approach tasks from different perspectives and think ‘outside of the box’ will distinguish your child from others. In an arts program, your child will be asked to recite a monologue in 6 different ways, create a painting that represents a memory, or compose a new rhythm to enhance a piece of music. If children have practice thinking creatively, it will come naturally to them now and in their future career. Read more....

Looking at the Social and Emotional Benefits of the Arts

By Melissa Menzer  December 21, 2015

Many would argue that the fundamental skills we develop and the experiences we have shape the way we approach the world later in life. In thinking about the arts and early childhood, I am often reminded of the time I volunteered for a community service center back when I was in college, which provided programs and assistance for active-duty military personnel and their families. During that time, I helped lead activities in the arts for a playgroup for parents and toddlers: the highlight of my day was seeing children experience pure joy when finger painting. Read more....

Turn to the Arts to Boost Self-Esteem

By Cheryl Lock, ArtsEdge.org

As parents, you do everything to help your child navigate through the ups and downs of childhood and survive with self-esteem. You praise his every accomplishment. “You tied your shoe!” “You finished that book!” “You made your bed!” You encourage him to make friends with other children who support him and have similar interests. You probably even sign him up for after-school activities to keep him physically active. You might register him for music or dance lessons and listen to endless recitations of his part in the school’s play. And all of this is great—essential, even. Read more....