Art is such a powerful learning tool that people often underestimate it’s impact on children’s development. Did you know that your child’s brain development is enhanced when they engage in drawing, panting, sculpting, and musical activities. Language, math, problem solving, trouble shooting and self reliance are some of the areas that are enhanced. Procreate is a wonderful app that help students gain further proficiency in digital media. Learning foundational skills that will prepare them for working in a digital age as well as increase confidence and competency.
     I have a Masters in Creative Arts and Learning in Elementary Education. Using the arts in education helps students to discover the joy of learning and accessing the material in a whole new way. Learning through the arts engages all of the senses, strengthens skills and creates a positive emotional attachment to any curriculum. It has been proven that we remember when we have a strong emotional attachment. That is why many of our childhood memories are moments of happiness, or sadness. Using the arts, can cement what is learned when the class and material is made memorable through the joy of creating art that we can be proud of! Art can make science concepts more concrete, and there is not a mark that anyone can put on a paper that is not math. Even a dot is a point. 2 dots can be connected by a line. This is math at its most fundamental.
     I am a self-taught digital artist. I love drawing and painting on a tablet. It is fun and extremely challenging. I was never a 'gifted,' artist. I was not someone born with talent in this area. I developed the skills and studied other artists online. I am excited to offer classes that help students begin their artistic journey on Procreate. It is such an amazing outlet! We are all artists if we want to be.
     I have also done post-graduate work in Special Education. This has given me a very deep appreciation that learners can be reached with patience, support, and creativity. I believe the teacher needs to meet the learners needs and not the other way around. Art can be a pathway for students to become confident in their skills. It stimulates the brain and creates more pathways, develop motor skills, language skills, and creative problem solving. For students who have learning difficulties all of this can help them become their best self.