We begin with scribbling because that is where we began when we were very young. Rudolph Steiner talked about the need to activate all four limbs before the introduction of letters and numbers, because it was a way to prepare the system for learning and improve the potential for success.
Drawing symbols such as houses, suns, trees, and people affects the body and mind differently. Often parents and teachers encourage symbolic drawing and shun scribbling because they don’t understand both the neurological and physiological benefits of scribbling. Scribbling can reduce stress, release bottled-up emotions, and help to restore balance in the brain stem, which is needed before cognitive learning can take place. I look at scribbling as a way to ‘warm-up’ the brain, and synchronize the body and mind so true learning can happen.
I think the ICWIB Just Scribble activity, which teaches the art of self-reflection, is a great way to activate all four limbs, because you use either hand individually, or both hands together. You can also scribble with your feet. In the process, the child also learns to detect when their system is “learning ready.” When it isn’t, the scribbling exercises can help them effectively shift brain states autonomously. In the process, they are able to experience more success.
I invite you to explore some of the ICWIB art activities and videos for FREE.
If you enjoy these messages, Like us on Facebook.
If you would like to read previous posts, you can find them under resources.