Art For Muslim Children
When it comes to education, art seems to be the subject that is forgotten and set aside. How will art help my child? You may ask. Aren’t there other subjects that are more important, that my child should be concentrating on rather than wasting time on painting drawing and making things?
Of course all subjects are important and play a vital role in education and these should not be sacrificed for the sake of art. But the nature of art is that it can be beneficial to all other subjects, and can work in harmony with them.
Before talking of the subject of art, it is important to point out firstly, when it comes to creating art, as Muslims, we are required to adhere to what is acceptable and what is not, in particular with art that is displayed. Indeed we have the Noble Qur’an and the Sunnah as a guidance as to what type of images can be depicted, and this is the bases of the art. Therefore it is not so much art for “art’s sake”, rather art for the sake of education and benefitting our children and therefore, for the sake of Allah insha’Allah.
Tips for parents
1) When your child starts creating, it is not about the end product; rather the process of creating that end product, that is important.
2) Ask questions about the picture/model, rather than just saying “oh that’s nice”.
3) Make positive comments, as negatives comments can be highly de motivating.
4) Pick out a few pieces of your child’s work for display; this will give the child a sense of achievement and satisfaction. Stick it on the fridge or frame it in a room or even upload as a desktop for the computer.
5) If it’s a model, let it be a talking point.
6) Integrate art with curriculum at every opportunity, including Islamic studies. Art can be a wonderful way of teaching tawheed, learning about the masjid and the rich history of Islam.
Benefits of art
1) Builds motor skills – learning to cut, paint and draw will help with your child’s motor skills in a way they can enjoy, without any pressure.
2) Develops hand – eye coordination.
3) Builds on self esteem – creating something and showing mummy or daddy is a wonderful way of feeling valued for making a creation.
4) Self expression – Helps a child think for themselves, which benefits them in other subjects, e.g. in English, such as creating stories and poems.
5) Awareness – Art can help your child to be more aware of their surroundings and to “look” at things in different ways. It also helps them focus on projects.
6) Problem solving – teaches a child to be creative and find alternative solutions to problems.
7) A wonderful way to channel energy for energetic children.
8) Builds confidence and encourages interaction.
9) An lastly, it’s an opportunity to spend time with your child.
The author of this article, Fehmida Ibrahim Shah, is a passionate proponent of art for Muslim children. To learn more, or to get ethical educational Islamic products for children => CLICK HERE!
Processing your request, Please wait....
