Our environment is full of a lot of different colors. Each of these has a different effect on our brain. For a child who does not know about the concept of colors as adults do, their perception and acknowledgment might be a bit different. However, kids constantly indulge in different activities to understand and differentiate between colors. There are many activities that can help kids learn about colors.
Coloring is one such activity that enhances their ability to express and indulge in something amusing. Using different colors and then putting them together on a piece of paper is generally a gratifying experience for a kid. It also helps in improving the hand to eye coordination and motor skills among children. Parents may also take the help of their toys and different elements available in this surrounding to teach the concept of colors to the kids. Learning colors has to be a sequential process as the kid slowly learns to recognize and differentiate between different colors.
Understanding different types of colors gives a better perspective into the psychological aspect of each color in a child's mind. Generally, colors are divided into different tones and categories. These are as follows -
These colors are the ones that immediately strike the eyes and may even cause a bit of restlessness because of overstimulation. This includes colors such as yellow, red, orange, and other bright colors. These are also generally associated with happiness and comfort because of their bright outlook. Yellow for instance is widely acknowledged as a happy and cheerful color. However, due to the bright effects of these colors, the child might not like it in some cases.
Cool colors are the ones that have a more calming effect on the brain. This is because of their toned-down appeal. This category includes colors such as blue, purple, and green. These colors are considered appropriate for rooms as they enhance the ability to concentrate and relax.
Neutral colors include beige, white, and grey. These are generally used to balance out very striking and vibrant colors. A neutral color generally creates a very balanced environment and is also quite versatile as it can be paired with a lot of different types of colors.
If you are thinking of figuring out some creative ways to teach kids about the concept and usage of colors, then here are some effective tips.
Since kids are surrounded by toys throughout the day, establishing a connection between different colors and toys can be a great way to start the color learning process. Use their toys, clay, and whatever is available to tell them about the names of different colors. Try to repeat it from time to time so that your child remembers the name of each color and identification. Then try to check their retention by asking them to pick up a toy that has a particular color.
Try to find picture books in the market that come with different types of colors and visually attractive pictures. Teach your kid about different colors through these pictures. These books come with attractive pictures. Your kid is more likely to remember the name of every color and recognize it with the cues that the book provides.
You may take your kid for an evening walk every day and try to introduce them to different types of plants, trees, and natural elements. Then slowly start telling them about each of these things and what color they have. Ask your child how they perceive each of these natural elements and what differentiates them visually. Your kid might enjoy this experience and learn how to differentiate between colors with the help of the environment.
Using coloring books is one of the most effective techniques for making your child learn about different colors. Help them with coloring and inform them about each color that they're using. Try to make them use a color that fits the drawing that they are coloring in. For example, if they're coloring an apple, make them use a red color for the fruit and a green color for the leaf on the top. This will develop an association and every time they color an apple, they will pick up a red color.
Children also love to play with clay as it's a very therapeutic experience and also allows them to build things on their own. With the help of clay, you can form 3-D objects of different colors. Start with something basic like making a pea or an orange. Try to use clay of the same color as the natural color of the object. Then inform your kid about the color and the object association. When your child makes the object on their own with the help of clay, they are more likely to retain things and differentiate better.
Learning how to differentiate between colors is one of the first steps for kids toward understanding the environment and the world. Although it might seem a bit tricky to parents during the initial stages, you will understand that there is an ocean full of opportunities for you to explore and make your child learn about colors in a really interesting manner.
References
https://rainbowpreschools.com/10-easy-ways-to-help-kids-learn-colours-and-shapes-better/