Hands off in preschool

In our zest to help children “create” sometimes it is easy to forget what it means to be creative…

Creativity is inspired when we give children the opportunity to explore the art process and materials without the pressure of having to do it in a specific way…

In an effort to teach children, adults get the idea that if they control a child’s movements or actions that this will help the child be more proficient with the process…

When in reality, controlling a child’s movements or actions promotes a sense of uncertainty and keeps the child focused on whether he or she is doing something right or wrong rather than focused on just doing and creating…

Inspiring a child’s confidence in the creative process calls for the teacher or adult to use a “hands off” approach…

As children are given the freedom to explore cutting, painting, gluing, and other process without an imposing agenda or an expected result – they develop greater levels of skills and greater confidence in their abilities…

Perhaps the hand print won’t end up in exactly the right place on the paper or the child will use a thumb instead of fingers in the ink stamp – but the child needs to be given the opportunity to figure it out without getting the impression that his or her efforts will be judged as doing something right or doing something wrong…

Besides, it isn’t fun having someone else control your movements as you try to create. In order to be creative, a child has to be invested in the process and in order to be invested in the process, the child needs to feel that it is okay to freely explore…

Deborah J Stewart

Deborah J Stewart

Every time I think I know everything I need to know about teaching young children, God says, "Hold on a minute!" and gives me a new challenge.

Let me tell ya...

With each new challenge that you overcome, you will find yourself better equipped and more passionate about teaching young children.

God didn't call wimps to lead, teach, or care for His children. Nope, he has high expectations, so get ready. You will have to give your very best but after teaching for over 30 years, I can tell you that it is a wonderful and rewarding journey.

Whenever your calling feels hard, just remember, 'He who began a good work in you (and in the children you serve) will be faithful to complete it.'

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