Kids Educational Benefits of Playing with Modeling Clay

Modeling clay comprises of any substances that are malleable, which can be used in sculpting and building. The compositions of the material and its process of production differs considerably. Most modeling clay using the following:

Ceramic clay: This substance is water based and made from other raw materials and clay minerals. They are baked at a temperature that is higher and the process of the baking is known as firing, which is used to create the ceramics like earthenware, porcelain, terra cotta, and stoneware.

Oil-based clays: This is made from a combination of clay minerals, waxes, and oils. Just like water, the oil doesn't evaporate. The oil-based clays remain bendy even when they are kept in an environment that is dry for a longer time.

Paper Clay: This is mostly handmade and a clay that is available commercially. Cellulose fiber is added to it to increase the tensile strength.

 

The benefits of Clay Modeling in Stimulating Your Child's Mind

If you want your child to develop an interest in clay modeling then now is the time to start. Clay modeling can be a very fruitful and fun way to learn techniques and instill an appreciation for fine arts in your child. If you are wondering how Clay modeling is good for your child, then here are some top reasons.

It is therapeutic. Simply the act of molding clay in one's hands whether you're a child or an adult can be very calming. Remember those stress balls that were once so popular. Manipulating the clay can help relieve stress or even be an outlet for young children who physically express their emotions.

It is an outstanding sensory development activity for little hands. Young children are still working on fine motor skills and dexterity. Rolling, squeezing, and forming the clay helps them in this area.

It is play based learning. You might not realize it, but playing with clay is promoting those little minds to get busy by thinking about what they are going to create and how they're going to create it. This type of creative play promotes imaginative problem-solving skills.

Clay Modeling for Social Interaction: When you enroll your child in clay modeling classes, your child gets to interact with other children. This helps facilitate interaction that is more social and your child is able to learn skills needed to adjust and socialize with others. This crucial element is needed in the formative years of a child and is very useful even in future when the child is grown up. Often, children who are very reserved or shy have a low opinion of themselves and do not have adequate confidence. When you enroll your child at a clay modeling session your child will socialize with others and realize his/her own strengths and weaknesses.

Clay Modeling for Problem Solving: Another aspect of your child’s development is the ability to solve problems on his or her own. This is another vital aspect of human behavior. Clay modeling entails thinking up a project, planning the implementation stages and deciding on which colors and textures to use. All of this, though on a smaller scale, encompasses the basic aspects of problem-solving. These skills can be very useful in later years and can play a major role in your child’s career as well.

Author’s Bio

Emma Victor, a clay-modeling enthusiast instructs his reader what modeling clay is all about and the important role it plays in the developmental process of kids. He also highlighted the benefits of clay modeling for children.