Modern Approaches to the Formation of Artistic and Creative Competence of Preschool Children in the Context of Educational Transformation

The article provides a comprehensive theoretical and methodological analysis of modern approaches to the formation of artistic and creative competence of preschool children in the context of global transformations in the educational field. Emphasis is placed on the fact that in modern realities, arts education goes beyond purely aesthetic upbringing, turning into a powerful tool for developing cognitive flexibility, emotional resilience, and social adaptability of a child. The content of artistic and creative competence is analyzed according to the updated revision of the Basic Component of Preschool Education of Ukraine, where special emphasis is placed on the child's agency, their right to self-expression, and an individual developmental trajectory. The author examines in detail the paradigm shift: the transition from reproductive teaching models to person-centered technologies based on the integration of various types of artistic activities - visual, musical, theatrical, and literary. The paper substantiates the expediency of introducing innovative methods, including STEAM education, elements of digital art pedagogy, and art-therapeutic practices, which are critically important for the psycho-emotional support of preschoolers in the context of overcoming the consequences of martial law and social instability. The role of the educator as a facilitator of the creative process is revealed, whose task is to create a barrier-free, stimulating, and safe developmental environment. It is determined that the effectiveness of forming the investigated competence directly depends on the harmonious combination of traditional artistic techniques with the latest digital tools, which allows the child to integrate effectively into the modern information society. The formulated conclusions and recommendations are of practical importance for teachers of preschool education institutions, students of pedagogical specialties, and specialists in the field of child psychology aimed at modernizing the educational process.