Creativity - Confidence - Connection
The Hidden Benefits of Arts & Crafts for Children
When should Children start Crafting?
Apparently this 6 month old was given some very safe paint knowing it was going to end up being in places other than paper. There are a number of paints for this very purpose.
Click here for options of Washable Tempura Paint
When looking for paint for toddlers – make sure it is labeled as Child-safe or Non-toxic
Besides that – it is just an adorable photo.
Homemade Edible Paint
Simple Recipe
1 Cup Flour
1 Cup Water
A few drops of Food Coloring
Optional: a spoonful of cornstarch for texture
“Art has the role in education of helping children
become like themselves instead of more like everyone else.”
— Sydney Gurewitz Clemens
How Crafting Sparks
a Child’s Imagination
As a mom raising 5 kids, I’ve learned that crafting isn’t just about keeping little hands or bigger hands busy — it’s about letting their imaginations run free.
When kids create – at any age, they come up with the most amazing ideas, solve problems in ways that surprise us, and build confidence along the way.
Whether it’s a messy painting, creating a space ship or painting themselves or each other – they’re doing more than making art — they’re expressing themselves, and trusting their own creativity.
And the best part – HAVING FUN!
“Creativity is Intelligence having FUN.”
— Albert Einstein
Helping Little Hands
Do Big Things
If you are a mom, you know how fast our children grow and in so many ways!
As far as crafting or creating, something as simple as gluing paper together, to painting a new cardboard playhouse, or my favorite – shaping play dough -can make a big difference in my child’s development.
Crafting isn’t just fun — it’s helping build the tiny muscles in their hands that they’ll use for writing, tying shoes, and so many other everyday tasks.
And in a world full of phone, tv and computer screens,
I love knowing that these hands-on moments are helping
them grow in ways that matter.
“Art is a place for children to learn to trust their ideas, themselves, and to explore what is possible.”
MaryAnn F. Kohl (author of Creative Arts for Children)
There’s something truly special about the proud glow on a child’s face when they say, “I made this!” That sense of accomplishment, no matter how simple or messy the project, is powerful.
Builds Confidence and Independence
Crafting gives children ownership over their creations — from choosing materials and colors to solving problems when things don’t go as planned.
Each completed craft reinforces that they are capable of taking an idea and bringing it to life. It nurtures decision-making, perseverance, and the courage to try again. These creative victories may seem small, but they lay the foundation for greater self-confidence and independence in everyday life — from tackling schoolwork to trying new challenges.
And when adults cheer them on, ask thoughtful questions, or proudly display their work, kids feel seen, supported, and inspired to keep creating.
