Texture Time in the Creativity Studio

Following DCM’s  annual deep cleaning extravaganza, the Creativity Studio has re-opened with a special theme—Texture Time! In this drop-in program, children are encouraged to feel and create art with textures, foil, crayons, and their hands.  Not only does this create an opportunity for brilliant works of art, but it is also an experience rich in sensory exploration! 

Why sensory experience and why textures? 

Sensory activities, including creatively working with textures, can provide meaningful connections for learning.  Angie Dorrell, NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) accreditation validator and former commissioner, shares, “Many of our favorite memories involve multiple senses. When thinking about my grandma, for example, I remember the smell of the flowers in her garden; I can see her wearing her favorite outfit; I remember how her gooseberry pie tasted and even how the sofa felt."

The same sensory concepts can come into play as we learn—engaging sight, smell, touch, taste and hearing can deepen the experience, making it more memorable. Learning professionals indicate that sensory play is brain building play! Neurological pathways engaged in sensory stimulating activities can develop sensorial pathways and lead to brain development and function. 

The Creativity Studio has a full schedule of drop-in activities every day!  Our themes change weekly.  Look for upcoming programs that engage the senses! Play Dough Playground, September 16-22; and Shaving Cream & Trains, September 23-29!  The Studio is open 10 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and                   1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. daily.  Check our calendar to view a weekly schedule of alternating math-, science-, and art-focused activities in the Museum’s Creativity Studio.

Resources:

Early Childhood News  
www.earlychildhoodnews.com/earlychildhood/article_view.aspx?ArticleID=227

Fun & Learning with Your Baby or Toddler  
www2.ca.uky.edu/hes/fcs/key/The_Importance_of_Sensory_Experience.pdf

Neuroscience for Kids  
faculty.washington.edu/chudler/neurok.html

School Library Journal www.slj.com/

Zero to Three, National Center for Infants, Toddlers & Families: Behavior & Development www.zerotothree.org/