During enrichment sessions, pupils have the opportunity to take part in a variety of arts and crafts activities that are linked to current themes and special days in the yearly calendar, including Halloween, Christmas, Armistice Day, National Day of Happiness, Easter, mental health day and many more.
Benefits of Arts and Crafts
1) Self-Expression and Managing Feelings
As with all creative pursuits, arts and crafts activities are a fantastic creative outlet. Through art, pupils can express themselves freely, and sometimes without realising! Subconsciously, pupils will be expressing their inner thoughts and feelings through their artwork. Art is a great way for pupils to reflect and manage their emotions. The process of turning a thought into a tangible piece of art is a brilliant way of allowing us to manage our internal thoughts and feelings, moulding them into something real. Moreover, art and creative pursuits are proven to have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing.
2) Improves Confidence and Self-Esteem
Art can improve confidence and self-esteem in a multitude of ways. For one, pupils will gain confidence in expressing themselves through the medium of art. Being able to channel thoughts and feelings into their artwork will, in turn, help them feel more confident in communicating how they are feeling. Art is a truly unique concept which differs greatly from one person to the next. This serves as a validation of each person’s individuality and their unique existence. Moreover, as with most things, pupils will grow in confidence the more they engage with art. Improving their techniques, understanding the underpinnings of great art and recognising how art makes them feel all contribute to their sense of self-worth.
3) Fine Motor Skills
A key physical skill which can be improved through art activities is fine motor skills. During arts and crafts pupils regularly use the various muscles in their fingers, wrists and hands. Regular use of these muscles improves their strength and finesse, which then makes other tasks, such as writing, far easier!
4) Patience
We all know that perfection takes time. Whether that be the length of time it takes to complete a piece of art or successfully executing an artistic technique, it takes patience and dedication. Once their artwork is completed, pupils will feel a huge sense of accomplishment and will learn that hard work and dedication is very much rewarded. It can be tempting to rush things to get them completed quicker or to give up completely if it is taking longer than planned. But, with time, levels of patience will increase and they will realise good things take time!
5) Concentration
Concentration is a skill which isn’t learnt overnight; it develops slowly. Remaining committed to the task at hand and not letting their minds wander can be challenging for some pupils. However, with an end goal in mind and the motivation to succeed, budding young artists will focus on their artistic vision. Practicing focus and concentration will benefit them in all areas of life and in a vast array of subjects.
6) Organisational Skills
Organisational skills can be developed through arts and crafts. Making sure they have the equipment they need close by, a good workspace and getting timings right can contribute hugely to the success of an art project. Being organised is, of course, a fantastic quality to have and can make everyday life that tiny bit easier.
