“Messy art develops important cognitive, social-emotional and multi-sensory skills. Self directed learning with fluid, sensory and tactile art materials is especially important in early childhood and continues to have benefits for older children as well.”
Anna Reyner, Early Childhood Art Advocate
“Messy art lets children discover the emotional pleasures of sensory and tactile play while they learn important lessons of cause and effect and the material properties of matter.”
Anna Reyner
“The tactile, or touch system, is very powerful and important. Discriminating, or feeling fine details, is critical to fine motor dexterity….the touch system actually influences the brain and influences emotions and behaviors.”
Jill Mays, Motor Development Specialist
“Sensory experiences can be very calming for many children and can help them work through troubling emotions, such as anxiety or frustration. For example, working with materials that require pressure and manipulation, such as playdough, can help children release physical energy or tension. Likewise, sensory materials lend to children’s expression of positive feelings, such as joy and excitement.”
Suzanne Gainley, Early Childhood Curriculum Specialist
“Children love art because it’s fun and provides them with authentic self expression: the freedom of choice, thought and feeling.”
Anna Reyner
January 16, 2014
