The Art of Childhood: Supporting Development with an Arts-Rich Curriculum

                                     

 Course Description:  

Pablo Picasso knew the value of the arts in young children's lives when he said that "Every child is an artist.  The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up."  Educators and caregivers of young children may be in agreement with Picasso – particularly those who have seen the toddler, up to his elbows in finger paint, intent on a project, or a preschooler twirling around the classroom with scarves, dancing to the music in her head.  Educators may know informally that exploration of art, music, dance, and drama brings children joy.  However, there is now evidence to suggest that the arts can bring much more to children.  A recent study found that low-income children who attended a Head Start program that included daily experiences with music, dance, and visual arts demonstrated more cognitive gains overall than children who did not attend an arts rich program.  Equally important, the children showed greater gains in social-emotional development as well.

In this training, participants will review research and information from the field of early childhood that outlines the importance of arts education for healthy child development.  They will reflect on their current practice and approach to arts education, and engage in creating and designing an arts activity that will support development across domains and integrate their new understanding of arts curriculum design.   

 

This course contains an accompanying PLC. Separate registration is required  

 During these Professional Learning Community (PLC) sessions, educators will participate in reflective dialogue around what was discussed during the CEU training. They will elaborate on successes, challenges, and strategies that result in better programs for children in early childhood settings. This is an opportunity to learn from, with, and on behalf of each other as early childhood and out of school time professionals. 

PLC Dates: 10/03/18, 11/07/18, 12/05/18, 01/02/19, 02/06/19

More Information

EEC Training Hours: 5

CEU: 0.5

QRIS Standard Alignment: Curriculum and Learning

Core Competency: 5: Learning Environments and Curriculum

 

*Refund Policy*

Refunds will only be made in the event that the course is cancelled.