Early Learning Goals

Expressive Arts and Design

Early Learning Goals Hands-On Education Activity
AD 1 - Creating with Materials
    AD/1.1 safely use and explore a variety of materials, tools and techniques, experimenting with colour, design, texture, form and function
    AD/1.2 share their creations, explaining the process they have used
    AD/1.3 make use of props and materials when role playing characters in narratives and stories
    AD 2 - Being Imaginative and Expressive
      AD/2.1 invent, adapt and recount narratives and stories with peers and their teacher
      AD/2.2 sing a range of well-known nursery rhymes and songs
      AD/2.3 perform songs, rhymes, poems and stories with others, and – when appropriate – try to move in time with music
      Expressive Arts and Design Topic

      How does Hands-On Education help fulfil my Expressive Arts and Design early learning goals?

      Hands-On Education supports the fulfilment of Expressive Arts and Design early learning goals by providing a range of engaging and creative activities for reception-aged children. These activities encourage children to safely explore various materials, tools, and techniques while experimenting with color, design, texture, form, and function. The program offers opportunities for children to share their creations and explain their creative processes, fostering communication skills. Additionally, Hands-On Education incorporates activities that promote imaginative play, storytelling, and performance, allowing children to invent, adapt, and recount narratives with peers and teachers. Through these diverse experiences, children develop their artistic awareness, self-expression, and ability to communicate through the arts, aligning with the key objectives of the Expressive Arts and Design early learning goals.

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      What are the expressive arts and design early learning goals?

      Expressive Arts and Design Topic

      Expressive arts and design early learning goals focus on fostering creativity, imagination, and self-expression in young children. These goals include encouraging children to safely explore various materials, tools, and techniques to experiment with color, design, texture, form, and function. Children are encouraged to share their creations and explain their creative processes to others, promoting communication skills.

      Additionally, the early learning goals emphasize the importance of imaginative and expressive play. Children are encouraged to invent, adapt, and share narratives and stories with peers and teachers. They are also expected to engage in singing nursery rhymes and songs, as well as performing songs, rhymes, poems, and stories collaboratively. Through these activities, children explore their creativity, build social skills, and develop an appreciation for the arts.

      What are some practical examples of resources and activities that support expressive arts and design in early years settings?

      Expressive Arts and Design Topic

      Expressive arts and design in early years settings can be supported through various resources and activities. Some practical examples include using an EYFS Musical Instruments Activity Pack for a fun adult-led activity. Setting up a designated music area with resources from a Music Area Set-Up Pack can also encourage expressive arts and creativity. Additionally, incorporating tools like a Colour Mixing Poster and Junk Modelling Flashcards in a creative area can inspire young learners to explore and experiment with different materials. To foster imagination and creativity, creating a home corner with a Home Corner Role Play Pack can provide children with opportunities for imaginative play and self-expression.

      How can adults within a setting support EAD activities?

      Expressive Arts and Design Topic

      Adults within a setting can support expressive arts and design (EAD) activities by providing a diverse range of resources and opportunities for children to engage in creative expression. This includes setting up areas for role-playing, offering small world materials, and providing art and craft supplies. It is important for adults to recognize the significance of their role in fostering EAD activities and to understand how they can best support children's creative development. Hands-On Education can help staff gain the knowledge and skills needed to effectively support and encourage EAD activities within the setting.

      What resources are available to support expressive arts and design activities?

      The British government recognizes the importance of children's artistic and cultural awareness, as it supports their imagination and creativity. It's important for children to have ample opportunities to interact with the arts and experiment with different media and materials. The quality and variety of their experiences are crucial for their understanding, self-expression, vocabulary, and communication skills. The frequency, repetition, and depth of their experiences are essential for their progress in interpreting and appreciating what they hear, respond to, and observe.

      Expressive Arts and Design Topic

      Moreover, various resources are available to support expressive arts and design activities for children in early years settings. These resources aim to enhance creativity and provide opportunities for artistic exploration. For example, teacher-made materials like the EYFS Musical Instruments Activity Pack and the Music Area Set-Up Pack can facilitate engaging activities in music and sound exploration. Additionally, tools such as the Colour Mixing Poster and Junk Modelling Flashcards offer hands-on experiences for children to experiment with colors and materials. Furthermore, the Home Corner Role Play Pack encourages imaginative play and storytelling, fostering a rich environment for creative expression.

      Studies have shown that exposure to the arts can have a positive impact on children's overall academic performance, as well as their social and emotional development. It can help them develop critical thinking skills, empathy, and a sense of cultural awareness that can benefit them throughout their lives. As such, the British government has taken steps to ensure that children have access to a wide range of artistic opportunities, both in and out of school. By investing in the arts, the government hopes to inspire the next generation of artists, musicians, writers, and performers, and to help children develop a lifelong appreciation for the beauty and value of the arts.

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