JPA students have had a blast this year with our new Clay enrichment class! In contrast to regular art class, where students make something to take home, this class is all about the process. Process-based projects are hugely important in the 0-5 years, as kids are still acquiring fine motor skills, self-awareness and
We have explored a wide array of techniques and concepts during the Clay class, each week building upon what they’ve already learned. Before introducing tools, we talked about different ways to work with the clay: rolling, coiling, pounding, pinching, etc. The kids love to create challah bread by rolling the clay out, and little snake families by coiling it. As students engage with the clay, they’re strengthening the little muscles in their hands needed for writing.
We‘ve also introduced various clay tools to the class, which they absolutely love! The kids have used popsicle sticks to build structures, and have explored how different tools can create texture. Every class talk about how the clay feels. How does it feel when Ms. Janet sprays a little water on it? How does it feel when you press a texture tool into it?
The kids have had such a positive response to this class, and we’re super excited about this addition to the JPA programming!