The Contribution of Painting to Children's Cognitive Development *

Abstract

This article explores the grounds for the belief generally held that there are benefits to be derived by children from art activity. It describes nine consequences or potential consequences of art activity which lead to qualitative changes in the child's ability to think and perceive. Through art children learn that the world itself can be regarded as a source of aesthetic experience and as a pool of expressive form. The author concludes that since some aspects of artistic thinking are inherent in the human condition whereas others are culturally determined, education in the arts is one vehicle through which culture is brought to nature. Through this wedding, children's cognitive development will be enhanced.

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