Exploring and creating with craft sticks in preschool

I cannot stress the following message enough…

Before preschoolers are ready to be creative…

They need time to explore the materials!

When introducing new tools or art mediums to young children, they need time to explore what happens when they manipulate the items before they will be ready to create with the items.

The art activity on this particular day was to make shapes by gluing craft sticks to a piece of paper. This certainly sounds easy enough but in reality, before the children will find forming shapes on a piece of paper interesting and inviting, they first need time to explore or play with the materials.

To give some time for exploration, this teacher set the craft sticks out on the floor and sat down on the floor with the children to model a few ideas of how the sticks can form different shapes.

And the children began to catch on quickly.  They formed shapes all over the floor…

and in the window ledge…

Those who have had the time to freely explore with the craft sticks will be more ready to try gluing shapes on paper with the craft sticks.

When given the time to explore first – the children will feel more confident in their ability to create with the materials and they will focus more intently on the creative process.

Did I spark any thoughts? Leave me a comment!




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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