Exploring Literature

Artistic Expression

Most young children love to draw, paint, or mold clay. Whether they make a worm, a dog, a bowl, or an abstract form — at least abstract in adult’s eyes — such expression comes naturally to children.

As children grow older, many put aside artistic expression and lose either interest or confidence. Does it have to be this way? Children can be encouraged to find the artist within, and their inner artist can be nurtured. Books can inspire both children and the adults who care for them. Children may dig around for feelings and ideas to express themselves and to develop greater skills with artistic media. Adults may nurture, appreciate, and guide children's expressions more appropriately. From classics like Harold and the Purple Crayon to the featured Books of Excellence Peek-a-Who, Frida, and The Dot, children’s books can help promote the value of artistic expression.

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