Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/writing-around-the-room/5024842/
Both writing and drawing are a means of recording a thought or idea that can later be shared with someone else, and both processes require the use of similar materials. Teachers can capitalize on the natural connection between writing and visual arts to enhance children’s development as both authors and artists.
Spontaneous Opportunities
for Writing
Writing thrives in a creative environment. Providing an abundant variety of materials for marking along with unique surfaces for drawing and writing encourages children to experiment. As a result, new skills and abilities are acquired as different means of self-expression are discovered and explored.
The basic drawing and writing tools available in early childhood classrooms – pencils, crayons, markers and chalk – each have distinct features (see Figures 1 and 2) that make them appealing for different tasks. More unusual writing instruments, such as highlighters, bingo markers, and lipstick, might entice reluctant children to put marks on paper.
Enhancing Oral Language
Children’s verbal language is enhanced when rich dialogue surrounds their artistic production. While children tend to focus on the subject matter when discussing works of art (Epstein & Trimis, 2002), adult guidance can prompt them to consider multiple aspects of a picture and ...