Nursery World - Case study: the art explorers

'Using art to encourage active participation of babies and toddlers should be a regular occurrence in our nurseries,' says Liz Mercer of Cathkin Community Nursery in South Lanarkshire. 'Art allows very young children to explore the world around them by manipulating a vast variety of materials.' The type of art opportunity set up in Cathkin is carefully planned and prepared, paying close attention to safety issues and identifying any need for close supervision. Each child is offered the chance to experiment and explore uninterrupted by adult intervention; the adult role is supportive and reflective. Having presented the child with, say, a tray of jelly or spaghetti to explore, the adult will sit back a little, perhaps describing what the child is doing or presenting tools to enhance their exploration. During a paint activity a child might watch an adult tracing a pattern and imitate what they are doing - but without being directed, or the adult suggesting they try. The initiative should come from the child.

Having presented the child with, say, a tray of jelly or spaghetti to explore, the adult will sit back a little, perhaps describing what the child is doing or presenting tools to enhance their exploration. During a paint activity a child might watch an adult tracing a pattern and imitate what they are doing - but without being directed, or the adult suggesting they try. The initiative should come from the child.

If the child is eager to take their exploration further, offering new resources that will allow them to learn a new way of manipulation will support their development. 'Art materials are an ideal way to allow young children to explore the way the world works and how we can make our mark,' adds Liz Mercer.

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