Art projects in elementary schools have a number of advantages for the individual students. It provides young elementary school students with a hands-on approach to learning about colors, shapes and textures. It also allows them to learn to follow simple directions and work together with others in a spirit of team work. Students learn that art presents opportunities for creativity and expression. Art also helps students develop self confidence, motivation and concentration skills.
Studies show that art education has numerous advantages for the student's academic achievements and education as a whole. Studying art and engaging in art projects develops skills in reading, cognitive ability, critical thinking and verbal skills.
Art in elementary schools helps to encourage an atmosphere of cultural diversity. Art in all its forms, painting, poetry, drama, dance and music, reflects specific cultural contexts. Consequently, art is an important tool for enlightening elementary students' culture. Art provides students with a broader and more appreciative outlook on different cultures. European art, Hispanic art, African art, teach student that different cultures perceive and represent the world in different ways. In addition to enlarging the understanding of culture, art history also offers important insights into history.
Children from lower-income families have historically been disadvantaged in their access to the arts. Unfortunately, the world of the arts often runs the risk of a elitism. Art museums, concerts, books and education in the arts all cost money. Children from lower-income families lacked the necessary economic resources and, as a consequence, were often alienated from the art world. Exposing children to art in elementary schools helps to level the playing field.