Creative Arts Education Philosophy

Philosophy of Social Studies and Creative Arts Education
Social studies and creative arts education should be taught starting in the early childhood setting and then continually built upon during the elementary years. Diverse learners benefit from both of these programs when classrooms celebrate differences and unity. Without both programs, students wouldn’t learn about themselves, their community, history, or have 21st century skills such as problem solving, working cooperatively, creative thinking, and artistic expression. Social studies and creative art programs should be taught through rich hands-on learning experiences. Developmentally appropriate practices must include using standards in all content areas, involving family and community,

and appropriate assessment measures. I believe in strong family values, letting faith guide my decisions, and the ability to express ourselves through creativity.
As a preschool teacher, I believe strongly in teaching children social studies and creative arts.

Early childhood settings are where children first learn how to become good citizens. Children learn what is acceptable behavior, how to agree and disagree with one another, and learn how everyone should be valued no matter what abilities they have or where they come from. I believe that children should be given many opportunities for creative expression. This learning should start in the early childhood setting and move continuality throughout the elementary years and beyond.
All children come from different diverse backgrounds. Some may come from two parent homes, living with grandparents, live on a farm, speak a different language, etc. In the early childhood classroom, teachers need to teach unity. I believe that children need to learn how to see themselves as equals. There are so many stereotypes that can be placed on people. If we as teachers can help children understand we are all God’s children, we can help stop these destructive

stereotypes.
If social studies and creative arts were not taught, our students would never learn how to become successful adults for the 21st century. They wouldn’t learn about their community that they live in. Children also wouldn’t learn how to get along with each other and miss out on important social skills. They wouldn’t learn history, geography, and what it takes to live in a democratic society. If children aren’t allowed to express themselves creatively, they won’t learn about themselves and what unique talents they hold within.
I strongly believe that all things taught in the early childhood setting need to be fostered through rich hands-on learning opportunities. This isn’t any different for social studies and the creative arts. Children learn best through play and exploration. Giving children opportunities to explore such as open-ended art materials, different dress up materials in the housekeeping center, a variety of musical instruments, puppets, etc. are just a few examples.
Teaching social studies and creative arts should span all content areas. I believe that teachers need to use the standards to help guide their teaching. This ensures that what is being taught is developmentally appropriate for the students. I also believe in partnering with families, the community, and the school community when teaching.
I have very strong faith and family values.

These play a role in my influence as a teacher. I try to live by God’s word and know that He doesn’t trust just anyone to become a teacher. As a teacher, I must uphold my faith in all that I teach. “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6, NIV Study Bible). God created us all different with unique talents. We must accept all children and help them discover the uniqueness about themselves. “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians

2:10).
In conclusion, I strongly believe the need of teaching social studies and creative arts in the early childhood classroom. With a continual teaching of these skills beyond preschool, children will learn how to become successful, creative members of society. I use God as my driving force in teaching what He has entrusted me to do. “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them.” (Psalm 127: 3-5).