Abstract Book of the 2nd International Conference on Art Studies
Year: 2025
[PDF]
Examining The Impact of Creativity in Early Childhood
Christopher Owens, Prof. Bertha Ochieng
ABSTRACT:
This presentation focuses on the impact of early years engagement in creative and cultural activities for children and parents within an inner-city setting, drawing findings from the ongoing 25-year longitudinal study, Talent 25, initiated in Leicester, East Midlands, UK, in September 2019. The study aims to identify effective interventions to boost participation in these activities among underserved children and young people. Its initial four-year phase employed a staggered-entry approach, recruiting 440 children aged 3-12 months and their parents/carers, who were subsequently encouraged to participate regularly in arts and creative opportunities. Utilising a robust mixed-methods approach, the study integrates quantitative data with rich qualitative insights, enabling data triangulation and a comprehensive understanding of causality. Preliminary findings reveal that early engagement positively influenced children, with parents reporting increased independence and enjoyment of diverse art forms, alongside benefits from peer interaction impacting speech and physical development. Parents also emphasised the contribution of these activities to their children’s positive mental health and social outcomes. The presentation will conclude by proposing a model for engaging low-income families in creative and cultural pursuits, highlighting the resulting benefits for both parents and the wider family unit.
Keywords: Community, diversity, early years, longitudinal study, mixed-methods