Process Vs Product: Are children PROCESS oriented and adults PRODUCT oriented?

Do we, as adults, value the process and give it importance in the lives of our children?  Or are we over concerned with them knowing the answers or having the artwork look like something adults recognize?

If we do value the process, then we would allow large blocks of time in their lives to tinkering around and exploring inside and outside.  Giving them some odd items from our recycle bins, a large roll of masking tape and some markers and challenge them to create whatever inspires them. Or spending time in natural spaces with rocks, and sticks, and dirt... lots and lots of dirt - wet and dry - and don't forget the scoops and containers.

Children thrive on the process because it is how they learn.  How they try their ideas out.  How they figure out how to use materials and tools.   

We observe this every day at The Wonder Room, whether it be in our classroom, during drop-in play, or out in our community at one of our library or school-based programs. 

A two-year-old spreading shaving cream with a spatula onto foam blocks, sometimes attaching them into buildings and towers.  Experiencing and talking about how the shaving cream feels and smells.  A three-year-old with a cup of glue and a q-tip - spreading it like paint on the paper surface (he has yet to discover glue as an adhesive).  A 4-year-old who is fascinated by the changing colors of the rinse water container as she uses the watercolor pallet (less concerned about her paint product).  A six-year-old arranging and rearranging the craft sticks to build just the "right" house that will protect the pig from the wolf.  

Children who are allowed to experience the process of learning will be significantly further in their ability to be creative and flexible with their thoughts and ideas.  They will develop a sense of confidence and may be more willing to accept the ideas of others.