Most children enjoy the activity of coloring. Children can learn many things from the simple task of coloring. Children often learn best when a lesson is being taught during play. The addition of a coloring project can give children many different tools for later in life. Here are some of the skills children learn from coloring.

Developing Fine Motor Skills

When a child is coloring it is often not thought of as a lesson that builds any skills. However, coloring is a great activity to help children develop their fine motor skills. Proper development of their fine motor skills will help children later when learning things like writing, dressing and being able to feed themselves. Oftentimes coloring is the first experience in learning how to grasp a writing instrument. A child learning how to color within the lines of a coloring sheet teaches hand-eye coordination and focus that will help benefit them as they are developing their writing skills. When children are able to color within the lines it is often an important milestone.

Reinforcement of Educational Lessons

Experts believe that children learn best through playing. A simple coloring sheet can reinforce the lessons being taught in the classroom. In early childhood education teachers often give coloring sheets that focus on the alphabet, shapes and numbers. Children subconsciously connect the lesson with the coloring sheet activity. Children also are able to learn color recognition and how to use the color wheel.

Self Expression

Some children often have a hard time being able to express their feelings. Many child therapists use coloring to learn more about how a child is feeling over a certain event. Children that are coloring disturbing pictures may have some issues that need to be dealt with. Coloring can give them this outlet. Giving children a way to express their thoughts and feeling freely is very important. Coloring can also be a great way of a child to unwind or sooth themselves after a hectic day. Free drawing can also help develop a child’s imagination.

Teaching Concentration

Introducing a color project to a child can help them learn how to concentrate on completing a task. A child will have a sense of accomplishment when they complete a project. Additionally, when a child focuses on the task and is able to color within the lines they feel a sense of pride. Completion of the coloring project also teaches children the value of hard work and dedication. When a child’s concentration improves they will be able to better focus on other more complex tasks such as mathematics.

Decision Making Skills

Giving children a coloring activity helps them develop their decision making skills. When completing a coloring sheet the children can decide what colors to use as well as the direction of the picture. A child can also make the decision on whether or not to complete a project to the best of their ability. Children that are able to make the decision to complete the task often have a better time academically.