The Benefits of Working with Clay by SJMS Art teacher, Roxanne Holonitch

When you think about ceramics, academics is not usually the first thing that comes to mind. Yet the importance of using clay in schools and at home is deeply connected to the strengthening of muscles used to properly grip and hold pencils. Clay is also a medium where children can express their thoughts in a tangible and meaningful manner.

Clay is a vital tool that needs to be frequently used in schools. While working with clay, children are building skills in language development, problem-solving, fine and gross motor development, social skills, and mathematical concepts.

Even very young children benefit from exposure to clay - the younger the better! The use of clay with toddlers allows for discovery of body awareness. Their little fingers are continually building up strength and dexterity. When it is time for more strenuous tasks, our students will be ready.

Clay is amazing all on its own, and if you are going for motor development, you want to encourage your child to use their hands to explore the clay. I find that if tools are given, children usually jump straight into manipulating the tools and do a lot less with their fingers, this is why we postpone the use of tools until our Lower Elementary level.

Clay is also a medium that promotes creativity. It develops self-confidence and self-expression like no other material.

I am as excited about our clay unit of study as our students.