Learning Indian traditional art can help kids in more ways than one
Engaging kids in art and craft activities has many benefits. It promotes creativity, helps to think out of the box, develops motor skills, improves vocabulary, helps to socialise more etc. Introducing our children to Indian folk and traditional art has more benefits. It enriches their lives overall. Here’s how it happens.
Do children have to be artists to appreciate art?
No. All kids are not going to be artists in future. Exposing them to different art forms through folklore, history, taking them to art exhibitions, museums, monuments and art performances will help in making art a part of their life. They may not practice art, but will grow into better people, more self-aware, confident, and creative in their thought.
What is the connection between children and art in India?
Art has always been an integral part of Indian society. Our culture has unique artistic expressions and practices linked directly with our social identity. The folk and tribal arts of India are simple, ethnic, colourful and vibrant, speaking volumes about our heritage and living history. Traditional classical arts are also historical and social documents that connect us to our country’s soul.
Some benefits of connecting children to Indian traditional art are:
- Opens their mind to diversity, and makes them more tolerant
- Helps to reduce unnecessary screen time by giving kids an attractive alternative
- All traditional art is deeply connected with nature. This has a beneficial effect on kids
- Interacting with art forms increase focus and observation in children
- Integrating art in life, whether as audience or practitioner, gives kids a richer life
- Art can also open up career opportunities, directly and indirectly
Why is it important to spread cultural awareness among children?
As adults, we know that our kids are flooded with diverse material in the form of entertainment and education that may be entirely divorced from our reality and culture. Indian traditional art has the right blend of education and entertainment that makes kids culturally aware while keeping them engaged. As parents, we need to introduce them to art forms and encourage them to continue appreciating the arts.