Everything in My Hand: Reflecting on Meanings and Processes of Art in Early Childhood Settings

Abstract

This paper explores art practices in early childhood education and care. Drawing on the author’s work as an early childhood educator and as a pedagogical facilitator working with educators and children, this paper challenges developmental perspectives of art as leading to particular learning outcomes. By presenting concepts of modern art and artists and using these as a lens through which to view children’s art, the author suggests new approaches in thinking about children, materials, and art processes.