How to get children involved in Arts (Music, Drawing, Dancing etc).
Being exposed to children for several years as an art instructor, an instructor for stress management for children, I would suggest the following methods to encourage children to get involved in arts
Non-judgmental attitude of adults
When I taught drawing to children (for several years), I was recommended not to comment (no praises, no criticisms) on a child’s work. It made me wonder how a child can be inspired to draw when they don’t hear any praises on their work. However, I was surprised to find that not commenting on their work gave them such a relief; they enjoyed their drawing class more than any other class they attended. It was so relaxing. They simply enjoy the process of doing art when there is no judgment. It is better to appreciate their effort, rather than the results. Use phrases such as “Looks like you have so much fun dancing”, "When you sing it shows you are really enjoying singing" or something like that.
Do not compare children
Each child grows at his/her own pace. Comparison means judgment on someone. No one likes to be judged. It is ok to compare them with themselves at an earlier time period but definitely not with their peers/siblings. Constant comparison makes a child lose confidence in his/her ability.
Keeping our attention on what children do right
As parents, we want our children to do everything correct, today!. Because parents are anxious, they are quick to point out what the child is not doing correctly (of course with the best interest of their child in mind). However, doing the opposite will give quicker results. Instead of focusing on what our kids don’t do correctly, if we put our focus on what they do correctly, it will certainly inspire them. You can experiment this by focusing on just one activity for a certain period (say a month) and point out to the things that your child does correctly. For example, they practice one day without any reminder, make a comment “You practiced today without any reminder. That’s nice”. Slowly it will start growing.
Not interfering between the child and the teacher
It helps not to speak for your child to the teacher. It will empower your child and help them with their ability to communicate what they want as supposed to what the parent wants. Encourage the child to speak to the teacher directly. Our expectations and the teacher’s expectations are very different. Though I learned this the hard way, this one skill has saved a lot of arguments between my children and I. This way, we can avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the child.
Keeping it fun and light
Children like to have fun. They are fully energetic and high-spirited. If we approach them with the same fun and lightness, they will certainly catch onto the spirit.
Want more tips and ideas for positive parenting? Come and attend the "Know Your Child" seminar that is offered in San Jose.
