The Artist in Me

When children start pre-school, it begins. They dabble with construction paper, finger paints, and glitter. They bring art work home nearly every day and we proudly plaster it across the refrigerator. But once most children start elementary school, the deluge of childhood masterpieces slows to a trickle, or in some cases, simply disappears. Thanks to shrinking budgets, many school systems have drastically reduced art instruction or eliminated it completely. So, if your child isn't taking art classes in school, how can you be sure their inner artist doesn't waste away?

Art teachers are quick to explain that art is more than just a fun outlet for students; it's an essential element of learning. According to the National PTA, art cultivates self-expression, imagination and creativity, as well as critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.

"If kids don't have the opportunity to be, it's not going to dawn on them to suddenly start thinking in new ways when they're older," says Gragg. "Kids who have artistic outlets are more likely to be successful adults because they see things differently. As business people, they'll be able to apply creative solutions and think beyond the basics."

While many parents want their children to excel in the basics, students who struggle with math, reading and science often benefit from artistic expression...

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