Discover the Power of Art Play for Children. Part 1

Why we at Bundabubs are so passionate about art play. We will try to be succinct!

I started Bundabubs as a new mum looking to make friends, never imagining it would grow into something that blends my love of early childhood development and art. I believe creativity should feel safe, joyful, and led by the person creating it. I began with children, then realised adults need it just as much, especially parents. We all need space to slow down and calm our nervous systems.

As a teacher and mum of two boys, I see how structured their days are. I wanted to create something different. A calm, welcoming space where children and adults can explore freely, follow their own ideas, and stay in that creative flow without interruption.

My sessions are engaging, hands-on, and immersive, building confidence and the courage to try, make mistakes, and trust yourself. I see the impact every time I run a class. This matters because we all need more art play, more connection, and more time to lose ourselves in the moment.

Art play is fun of course, but did you know that there are so many benefits for kids that come from engaging in this kind of play? Let's find out more about the power of art play.

I could talk for hours about the benefits of art play. That's why I wrote such a long list - there is probably loads I've missed off. But, I know that a parent's time is precious so if you're ready, let's jump straight in. I'll be posting a new one every few days so keep your eyes out for more!

* side note, these are my opinions about my own classes and the benefits I see for kids who experience the classes. Just wanted to make that clear from the get go - this blog is just my little corner to share some thoughts that you might be interested in. Anyway...

Here we go.

In at number one it's fine motor skills!

Art play gets those hand muscles working! The tools, materials, paint bottles provided are specifically chosen to give your child's fine motor skills a work out.  Fine motor skills are movements such as grasping, reaching, touching, squeezing, pinching, shaking, twisting. All of these movements work the smaller muscles of the hands and make them stronger. These skills are transferable to everyday life - holding a pencil, using a toothbrush, cutting with scissors, using cutlery. So, the more of these types of activities your kids can practise, the better. Paint bottle squeezing is a particular fave!

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  Spray painting

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  squeeze the glue

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  squeezing paint at art play

In at number 2 it's communication!

Art play allows kids to express themselves without having to say anything at all. Some kids love the sound of their own voice and talking comes naturally. For others, having another way to express themselves can be a huge relief when talking isn't something they find easy to do. Engaging in art allows all children to communicate their thoughts, feelings and ideas and express themselves without the barrier of having to talk getting in the way.

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  Rainbow artwork

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  Surfing painting

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  Decorated rainbow painting

In at number 3 it's independence and autonomy.

Art play allows kids (possibly for the first time all day) to have independence and autonomy. This is so beneficial and has lasting effects. It allows them to assert control and experience what it feels like to make their own decisions and be accountable for their actions. By doing this they simultaneously become better at making decisions for themselves and know when they really need help or when they just need a bit of attention. Key skills for life! Of course, we don't tell them to be independent, instead we encourage it by little nudges here and there to help them trust their instincts and just go for it.

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  The art play table

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  Creativity in action

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  3 jars of paint

Look out for 4 and 5 coming soon on the blog!

What do you do to help your child with fine motor skills? Write in the comments if you have any great tools or activities I could use in the classes.

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