This accessible and practical guide explores how we can enhance and embed creativity in the early years to support children’s wellbeing. The book initially explores the work of Anna Craft, Ken Robinson, and Reggio Emilia to think about creativity with young children, before considering what this means for wellbeing. Five core chapters focus on creative mediums – drawing, sculpting and painting; craft; music; dance and drama; and storytelling and poetry – and offer a range of practical ideas and activities to use and adapt.
This book provides
A wide range of activities accompanied by examples of collaborative arts projects with children.
Interviews with artists and practitioners who support children’s wellbeing using creative mediums.
Recommendations for creative activities using accessible and everyday materials.
Case studies showing the positive impact of creativity, from developing children’s cultural understanding to soothing and supporting children with sensory experiences.
Suggestions for enthusing children with a love of words, enabling them to express their thoughts and feelings through creative language.
Moments for reflection to encourage readers to pause and consider the impact of creativity on their own wellbeing as well as the wellbeing of children in their care.
With ideas included that every practitioner can use in their setting, this book is an essential tool for early years professionals who want to build their confidence in using creativity in their practice whilst supporting children’s wellbeing.
Author(s): Sonia Mainstone-Cotton
Series: Little Minds Matter: Promoting Social and Emotional Wellbeing in the Early Years
Publisher: Routledge/Speechmark
Year: 2023
Language: English
Pages: 159
City: London
Cover
Endorsement
Half Title
Series Information
Title Page
Copyright Page
Table of Contents
Introduction
Reference
1 Creativity in the Early Years
Creativity and Education in the UK
What Is Creativity?
Early Years and Creativity
What Environment Do We Need to Encourage Creativity?
Seeing Creativity in Maths/science/STEM
Recognising the Diverse Range of Creativity
Ways We Might Hinder Creativity
References
Further Reading
2 Wellbeing and Creativity
How Does Creativity Support Our Wellbeing?
Cultural Diversity
Children, Creativity and Wellbeing
Flow
How Do We Use Creativity to Support Children’s Wellbeing?
The Reggio Emilia Model
Practical Ideas to Try to Support Wellbeing and Creativity
References
Further Reading
3 Fine Art
Early Mark Making
Extending Art Materials
The Danger of All Creative Projects Looking the Same
Art Galleries
Books About Artists
Making Links With Artists in the Community
Reflection On Interview
How Does Art Support Children’s Wellbeing?
Working With Artists
Practical Ideas to Try to Support Fine Art
References
4 Craft
How Does Craft Support Wellbeing?
Steiner and Montessori Practice
Having Craft in the Environment and Inviting Crafters to Visit
How Can We Use Craft Making With the Children We Work With?
Examples of Craft Materials We Can Provide
The Outdoors
The Role of the Adult in Supporting
Places to Look for Inspiration
Practical Ideas to Try to Support Craft
References
Further Reading
5 Music and Dance
The Benefits of Music
Music, Dance and Wellbeing
Singing
Learning New Songs
Sharing a Range of Music With Children
Dance
Learning About a Wide Range of Dance Practices
Making Music
Musical Instruments
Practical Ideas to Try to Support Music and Dance
Playlists
References
Further Reading
6 Drama and Imaginative Play
Why Is Imaginative Play Important?
The Resources We Provide for Imaginative Play
How Can We Support Imaginative Play?
Documenting Children’s Imagination
Follow the Child’s Lead
How Can We Support and Promote Imaginative Play in Our Setting?
Resources to Support Drama and Imaginative Play
Introducing Children to Plays
Practical Ideas to Support Imaginative Play and Drama
References
Further Reading
7 Words, Storytelling and Poetry
Helping Children Become Familiar With Stories
Listening to Children’s Stories – Helicopter Stories
Story Sacks
Words and Imagination
Storytelling
Props to Support Storytelling
Ideas for Storytelling Props/images
Representation in Books
Poetry
Links With Your Community
Practical Ideas to Try to Support Words, Storytelling and Poetry
Contributors’ List of Favourite Children’s Books
References
Conclusion
Index
