The arts, in all their forms—music, drama, and the written and visual arts—are essential to all cultures, contribute to individual vitality, and play a social-recreational role in our communities. Many groups in the community provide arts and crafts programs or activities for children and youth: recreation departments, public and private arts groups, libraries, museums and arts centres.

Additionally, many arts programs are supported within public and private education systems. Participating in and learning about the arts can have a big impact on young people’s educational, social and spiritual development. It provides opportunities for them to be creative and to express themselves, and brings beauty into their lives. Arts programming can also be a critical tool for children and youth to help them understand the world around them.

Creating art can be a way for children and youth to express their individuality and imagination. In a multi-cultural society like Canada, children and youth also have the opportunity to learn about the arts of many different cultures, which fosters cultural understanding and respect. Child and youth friendly communities make it easy and enjoyable for young people to participate in and learn about the arts. They provide opportunities for children and youth to explore all the arts, and learn about their own and other cultures.

Additionally, having a wide array of arts and cultural programs provides a great platform for newcomer children and youth to transition into Canada while learning about how to celebrate and embrace their own sense of cultural identity.