Aesthetic Preferences of Young Children

“The research studies, included in the manuscript, focused on important elements that have been recognized as influential in the development of young children: gender, culture and home environment. The broad view of the developing child provides an expanded view of the interrelationships that influence their artistic environment. The results from the studies are presented effectively in both the text and supportive tables. A significant finding was that two and three year old children could identify their personal artistic preference, which included both realistic and abstract paintings. The findings also indicated that variations of preference exist between some cultures and home environments. . . . A unique feature of this manuscript is the combination of research and suggested application to classroom practice. . . presented in a form that could be used in the early childhood classroom by a teacher. It includes developmentally appropriate activities that can expand the artistic experiences of very young children in an early childhood environment.” – Rebecca T. Isbell

“Her review of research is convincing showing the need for aesthetic art education with young children. The research points to the fact that such experiences can enhance cultural sensitivity, promote language development, improve the quality of young children’s own art productions, and creativity. Her research adds significantly to our discussion about the arts in education.” – Becky Bailey

Table of Contents:
Introduction: The Importance of Art Education
1. Review of the Literature on the Aesthetic Preferences of Young Children
2. Current Research on the Aesthetic Preferences of Young Children: Preferences of Caucasian Pre-school Children for Color Reproduction; Preferences of Caucasian Pre-school Children for Black and white Reproduction; Preferences of African-American Pre-school Children for Color Reproduction; Preferences of African-American Pre-school Children for Black and White Reproduction; Preferences of Mexican Children for Color Reproduction; Compared and Contrasted – Preferences of Caucasian, African-American, and Mexican Pre-School Children; Pre-School Children and Their Parents Aesthetic preferences; Preferences of Sixth Grade Children, and University Education Majors
3. Adapting Research Findings to the Early Childhood Classroom: Suggested Art Activities and Visuals for Two and Three Year Old Children; Lessons for the paintings “Charing Cross Bridge” by Derain; “Improvisation 3 (Sea Battle)” by Kandinsky; “The Cradle” by Monet; “The Lovers” by Picasso
Tables; Appendices; Bibliography