We don’t look at polka dots twice. Our brains immediately recognize that they’re a repeating pattern of dots. The same goes for plaid, chevron or any kind of design. We’re also able to look at a bunch ...

Kids who doodle, finger paint, or design bead jewelry aren’t just making art—they’re boosting their brainpower. Making a masterpiece—or just a stick-figure drawing—is actually a problem-solving ...