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Tips for Parents
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Establish a supportive and nurturing atmosphere
where your child can learn to express himself
through his art. Praise his work.
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Set aside a place where your child can practice
his skills and work on projects without interruptions
from siblings or pets.
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Help your child learn to see color and design
in everyday objects, in nature, and in the
artwork of others.
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Teach to your child how to use art materials.
let him experiment with the materials
before he tries to create a finished product.
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Explain to your child the value of planning
ahead. Gathering materials, setting
up a work area, and possibly sketching out
some preliminary ideas can help a child learn
to focus on what he would like to accomplish.
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Encourage your child when he becomes frustrated.
Explain that he will not like everything
he creates. Give him the option to
take a break and finish later. Assure
him that through trial and error, he will
learn to express his ideas through art.
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Read labels on all art materials. Avoid
materials that are toxic, produce permanent
stains, or might cause allergies.
Viewing Art With Children
When visiting a museum or exhibit, let the
child set the pace - museums can be tiring.
Make the experience fun for both of you.
Ask questions that spark the child's interest
and help teach him how to view art.
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What did you notice first about the art piece
(subject, colors, shapes, etc)?
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What general style is the art?
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How does the work "speak" without
using words?
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What do you think the artist wants the audience
to see or feel?
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What part of the work gives you special feelings?
What kind of feelings?
Styles of Art
Observations of the Real World:
The artist imitates life by using details,
lighting, and carefully planned designs that
show recognizable subjects.
Creation of Imaginary Worlds:
The artist imaginatively combines familiar
subucts or scenes in a way that may remind
us of the strange combinations of images
in dreams.
Expression of Feelings:
The artist tries to capture a mood or feeling,
rather than show how something looks. He
or she may exaggerate, omit details, or intensify
colors, shapes, or lines to help us identify
the feelings.
Invention of Visual Order::
The artist creates an arrangement of lines,
shapes, and colors that are meant to intrigue
our eye and fascinate us.
Resources
Your local library, schools, museums, and
art galleries are all excellent sources of
information about art. Also visit art supply
stores and teacher supply stores for more
information and art materials. See original
works of art at museums, art galleries, exhibits
and artists studios. Invite an artist to
do a demonstration at a den meeting. Books,
videos, and television can provide information
about artists and their lives. Watch for
children's art classes offered by after school
programs and local parks and recreation departments.
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