Origami, the art of paper folding has proven to be so much more than just a beautiful craft idea. Origami is good for you. This realization has been taken to the classroom and used by many teachers to broaden the student’s way of thinking. Origami compels the student to develop skills in an interesting way. This activity teaches skills that are necessary and beneficial in every day living.
Patience is something that we all need to learn. Each and every day, whether at school, at work, at home or at the grocery store, people need to practice patience. This is difficult for some individuals, especially for the child who is waiting their turn for the swing for example. Origami can be used to instill this importance of patience in both children and adults alike. Because this activity requires careful attention and precise folds, it cannot be rushed if hoping to achieve the intended result. One must be very patient when attempting an origami project.
Attentiveness or awareness is also essential in our daily existence. Whatever environment we find ourselves in it is important to be aware of the situation and activity around you. The art of origami teaches people to be aware and to pay attention. This is imperative in order to complete an origami project accurately. In a group setting the instructions are normally relayed by one person for example a teacher or instructor. To know which folds to make, the student or individual needs to listen attentively. This is a good practice for anyone.
Origami is great for fine tuning motor skills. This activity requires an individual to use their hands, both hands to fold the paper in order to achieve their goal. Our hands are needed to do just about everything. Origami would be beneficial for people who are experiencing difficulties with their hands, especially where fine motor skills are required.
Sequencing is important to learn. No matter what activity a person sets out to do there are steps to be taken. If the third step is taken before the first, it’s unlikely the outcome will be favorable. Let’s use baking a cake for example. First of all the ingredients need to go in the bowl, then they need to be mixed adequately and then put in a pan to bake. If the ingredients were all thrown into the baking pan without first of all being mixed, the result would be a mess not a cake. The same idea works with origami. If steps are skipped the results would be less than expected.
Origami is good for kids and their self-esteem. Kids are easily intimidated by other kids. Being able to complete an origami project can be gratifying for children. Realizing they independently created a work of art can make them proud. Not only will they feel proud but they may feel equipped to take on projects that otherwise may have been avoided. There’ll definitely come a day when everyone will be demanded to work independently. Origami projects are good for you.
