own narrow perspectives, but from the perspective of people from other cultures.” Yet, while the arts open a world of possibilities to a child, they also give children a greater sense of self. While enjoying artistic experiences, children are stripped of pretenses and self-consciousness. As a result, they develop an awareness of, and appreciation for, their unique individuality. Easy, Inexpensive Ways to Incorporate the Arts Into Your Child’s Life Exposing a child to the arts need not be time-consuming, difficult, or expensive. Most communities offer enrichment programs at recreation centers, libraries, museums, or performing arts centers at little or no cost. It is also very easy to reinforce concepts at home. Here are different types of creative arts that children enjoy, the benefits that each provides, and suggestions for how to incorporate them at home. successful, employable child has to be the real goal. Fortunately, it is possible to achieve both, because exposure to the arts develops skills that are highly valued in the workforce. The evolving workplace rewards creative thinkers who can generate innovative and original ideas across a variety of media. An education that incorporates the arts powerfully nurtures imaginative, adaptable, and tough-minded thinking that can benefit children across many areas of study. Better still, in an increasingly interconnected world, exposure to the arts helps children appreciate different perspectives and backgrounds. Famed Broadway composer Stephen Schwartz explains, “The arts are about increasing sympathy, increasing in people the ability to see things from other people’s point of view, and understanding that the world is not just from your 140 Hawaii Parent NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
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