Although finger painting is generally associated with fun and play, this activity serves as a way for young children to develop social skills. In art class, children will learn to share and take turns using paints and materials. They will also learn to express themselves and their creativity in the presence of other children and adults. In some cases, finger painting can be a collaborative process in which children can share ideas and develop and appreciation for others.
No matter your age, finger painting is a way to develop and explore your creativity. Using only your hands and fingers, this artistic activity opens the door for creative line and shape making. Finger painting is also a sensory exercise that can enhance and foster creative development. Finger painting is not restricted by rules or guidelines; therefore, finger painters can develop self-esteem along with their creativity, knowing that they are not under pressure for the results of the end-product.
Finger painting is a recommended exercise for children as young as 12 to 24 months, as this is the time that children begin to refine and develop more advanced motor skills. Finger painting can help in developing an awareness of spatial relationships, as well as hand-eye coordination. Additionally, because finger painting is a sensory exercise, children develop an understanding of texture as it relates to the movement of their hands and fingers over the paper with paint. This is the beginning of learning to paint and draw with other tools like brushes and pencils.
Finger painting develops communication, as it is a form of artistic expression. People of all ages can use finger painting as a way to communicate their emotions and feelings. Once the artwork is completed, the finger painting can be a topic of conversation. Children can communicate their thoughts about color, shape, textures and the feelings they had as they created their finger painting. This communication can develop language and new vocabulary, as well as open the door for conversations concerning the imagination and creativity.