Blog #7 Lindsay Smith

 The Importance of Creative Arts in the Classroom

This week, I’ve been thinking about the role creative arts play in supporting children’s development. Even though my current internship doesn’t have a heavy focus on the arts, it’s clear how valuable these areas are especially for students in special education. The arts give students a way to express themselves that goes beyond words or academics. All down the hallways through the pyramid program they have student art displayed and its my favorite thing to see each week even though I dont get to see it first hand! 

Expression Beyond Words

Many students in special education have challenges with communication, focus, or motor skills but creative arts offer them other ways to show what they know and how they feel that are beyond words.

Building Confidence and Joy

The arts create space for success without the pressure. Theres no wrong answer because its all about the process. The freedom of art encouraging for students who may struggle in other areas of the classroom. It builds confidence and reminds them that their unique ideas and creations matter.

Development Through Creativity

Art supports all kinds of development like fine motor skills, listening, coordination, emotional regulation, and even collaboration. It’s also just fun and relaxing. And that joy of creating is something every student deserves to feel, especially in learning environments that can sometimes feel tough or overwhelming.

What I Hope to Bring to My Future Classroom

  • Make space for creative arts regularly, not just as a reward or extra activity.

  • Use art as a tool for communication, expression, and understanding.

  • Celebrate effort and individuality

  • prioritize the process

  • Keep materials accessible 

  • encourage art at home beyond the classroom and as a way to engage families.

Creative arts are more than just activities they are essential to helping students grow in confidence, expression, and connection. Even in classrooms with limited resources or time, I hope to make space for creativity.

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