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As a class we enjoy engaging with media that leaves a mark. One of the sensory options that we have offered to children is painting. Through this experience the children have been able to maintain freedom in making their own discoveries and creating new learning opportunities. As teachers, we have strived to provide meaningful opportunities for every participant.
Some children like to have a full-body experience using all of their senses, others take on a slower approach, while some prefer to observe others engaging in the activity. This is why we offer several approaches for children to allow for discovery making and whole body engagement while at the same time responding to the needs of the individual.
This child sits on the canvas looking around at the wet blobs of paint. He puts both hands out in front of himself and gets on all fours. He stands up cautiously and slips on the paint falling onto his bottom. He tries again, this time successfully standing up with a great big smile. He takes a step forward onto the paint and slips, but catches himself. He swivels his body, continuing to be very careful not to fall. Another peer, grinning with a face full of paint, lays on his belly just outside of the canvas. He watches his peer very intently with each step he takes. The child continues to walk back-and-forth on the canvas creating footprints and smear marks.
Small group activities provide meaningful opportunities for children to communicate with one another leading to the development of diverse communication skills. Using gestures and sounds to communication with one another. This is a very exciting time to spend with the children as everyone responds differently. Children encourage, observe and learn from one another furthering their artistic development.