Curriculum Area for Cognitive Development: Creative Expression and Appreciation for the Arts

2.J.01

Children are provided varied opportunities to gain an appreciation of art, music, drama, and dance in ways that reflect cultural diversity.

We provide the children with many different opportunities to explore cultural diversity. During holiday times we invite families to come in and share experiences with us, which include cooking, art projects and stories. In the dramatic play area we have dress-up clothing that reflects different cultures. We also listen to stories & songs in different languages.

2.J.02

Infants and toddlers/twos are provided varied opportunities to explore and manipulate age-appropriate art materials.

The children are encouraged to use a variety of art materials.

2.J.03

Infants and toddlers/twos have varied opportunities to express themselves creatively through freely moving to music. Toddlers/twos have varied opportunities to engage in pretend or imaginative play.

The children participate in music class weekly and the teaching staff also encourages the children to engage in pretend play.

2.J.04

Children are provided varied opportunities to learn new concepts and vocabulary related to art, music, drama, and dance.

The children participate in many structured and spontaneous activities related to the arts. A teacher will often introduce new concepts and vocabulary during these times.

2.J.05

Children are provided varied opportunities to develop and widen their repertoire of skills that support artistic expression (e.g., cutting, gluing, and caring for tools).

During the day the children often paint, glue, color and use scissors to express themselves artistically. A lot of the art materials are available and easily accessed by the children.

2.J.06
Children are provided many and varied open-ended opportunities and materials to express themselves creatively through music, drama, dance and two- and three-dimensional art.

During both music and story time the children are encouraged to express themselves.

2.J.07
Children have opportunities to respond to the art of other children and adults.

The children often comment on another child’s art work. Sometimes during circle time the children show off their art work. We encourage the children to express their comments in a positive manner.