I remember Kindergarten teachers telling parents, “It’s the process, not the product”, as we admired the children’s artwork.
I’m not quite sure how I felt about this comment, because I thought the creations were pretty amazing. But I understand it now. After working with children and their families for so long, I value that process more than ever.
If you have a child in preschool or elementary school, you’ve seen your fair share of artwork and projects that after a couple of months hanging on the frig, you’re not quite sure where to house them. At this point, you are wondering why these pictures are attempted in the first place.
Sometimes it’s clear that an adult probably completed a majority of the glued bits, but that’s not the point. We want to provide the opportunity for all kids to engage in a variety of creative endeavors. Some children are more interested and more tolerant than others. Continually providing these materials so that kids can be creative is key.
For some families, it’s very difficult to watch as their children make messes with paints, glitter, and glue. I personally have had years of creating everything from school paintings to science projects to 3D models of the human brain. My dining room table and kitchen have basically been turned into science labs, art studios and test kitchens. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Why? Because everyone was engaged, creating, and left with a feeling of accomplishment. It’s great to complete something made with your own hands.
Even though it’s messy, time consuming, and possibly a “waste” of paint and glitter as they spill to the floor, you are laying a foundation for greater things to come.
When we unpack our Christmas decorations every year, one of our favorite things to do is to critique all of the wonderful decorations that were created between the ages 2-12. I truly believe that it is well worth all of the messes and extra time that it takes.