If a kid has a talent for something, parents naturally want to do their best to support them in practising. But, there are many benefits aside from art to using an easel as a vertical work surface from a young age. Here are some of them, along with suggestions on how to pick an easel you’ll be eager to try.
Benefits of Using an Easel for Kids
Most parents who have decided to let their children explore working on a vertical surface say that was one of the best things they have done, as kids love their easels. When you search for a practical and sturdy kids easel in Australia, you’ll come across different models, from miniature options that are best for on-the-go to traditional wooden and double-sided ones. If you’re thinking of getting your child an easel to help them express their creativity, here are some benefits to help you make the right decision. Most of these go beyond art, showing us that a vertical surface can benefit a child’s development in general.
Shoulder-Elbow Stability
When using larger vertical surfaces, such as kids’ easels, chalkboards or marker boards, children can use more generous arm movements that strengthen the joints and muscles of the upper extremities, encouraging flexibility. These movements strengthen even the hands as they perform against gravity to draw or paint on the surface.
Bilateral Coordination
If you’ve ever tried to use a stencil while working on a vertical surface, you know how tough it can be. When kids try to trace an object, use a stencil or stabilise their paper to write on a vertical surface, they must use both hands – one for holding, the other for tracing. That requires proprioception and strength, and that’s how they learn to coordinate their sides.
Midline Crossing
If your child struggles with midline crossing or establishing strong hand dominance, using a kids’ easel as a vertical surface can help him practice. Writing, drawing and painting on a large easel allows crossing their body’s midline to reach all the available space.
Pencil Grasp
Writing on a vertical surface naturally extends the wrist, which promotes hand stabilisation for improved control over writing implements and pencil grip.
Hand-eye Coordination
Thanks to today’s tech-driven world, more and more kids have difficulties maintaining visual attention to activities. Working on an easel can help encourage your child’s hand-eye coordination because it brings the task closer to their eyes, allowing them a better view of their actions.
Spatial Awareness
Working on a large surface vertically helps children understand directional terms (left, right, up and down) easier, as they relate the words to their body!
Sensory
We all work better when we change positions, especially those who have sensory issues. Using an age-appropriate easel can help fidgety kids who perform better while standing.
Core Strength
Kids get a strong dose of core strengthening when they work on an upright surface while kneeling or standing. The best way to maintain proper posture is to use your back and core muscles instead of slouching or resting on the chair's back!
What Is the Best Easel for Children?
When you browse Australian online specialised art stores, you’ll notice that, as is with other kids’ art supplies, kids’ easels come in an array of sizes, shapes and materials. Here are some factors to consider when shopping for the best kids easel Australia-wide.
Choose the Right Type
Most traditional wooden easels have an adjustable canvas holder and stationery storage space, providing a classic yet sturdy platform for your kid’s artistic endeavours. These working surfaces are best if you’re seeking a comfortable art-creating experience.
Double-sided easels featuring a chalkboard on one side and a whiteboard or a paper roll on the other are incredibly versatile, doubling the fun. This easel is ideal if you want your kid to switch mediums easily and engage in imaginative play.
Tabletop easels offer a stable surface for artistic expression, making them ideal for those with limited space. Small chalkboard easels are compact and convenient, making them an excellent backpack option for your mini artist on the go.
You can also find foldable, collapsible easels that are best for those looking to maximise space when they’re not in use.
Adjustable
Consider the easel's ability to grow with your youngster. Look for features that accommodate different canvas sizes, tilt angles, and height adjustments. In this manner, the easel can evolve alongside your child's creative path.
Extra Features
A foldable or portable easel can be invaluable if space is a concern. It's perfect for putting away after playtime and setting up when it's time to create. Think of easels with extra storage options, like shelves or trays, to keep art supplies accessible and well-organised. Look out for unique features such as paper-securing clips or magnetic surfaces. These small touches can add to the excitement of the creative process.
Safe Materials
Safety is, of course, vital. To guarantee your child's artistic endeavours are secure, look for easels made of non-toxic materials with rounded edges. To ensure your easel can survive all the imaginative explorations of your youngster, you should choose one constructed of robust, long-lasting materials, such as metal or wood.
