As an artist I get excited over colors and shapes and am inspired by many things that I encounter each day. I can easily say that I am an art teacher at heart because I yearn to share my excitement with others. I would rather use my energy dreaming up creative art experiences than make a personal work of art of my own. Pedagogy and Delivery is my passion. On this blog you will find artistic endeavors for you and your children to take part in, engaging art materials, special tips for set-up and clean-up and thoughts about the process of what happens in between. Learn new recipes for artistic fun that are not cookie cutter or product based, rather focused on exploration and grounded in sensory based learning.

Exploration is how creative discoveries begin to blossom. Don’t be afraid to get messy. Lay down an old sheet or vinyl tablecloth before setting up shop. This will make for an easy clean-up as well as less stress about material use while playing. If you are nervous about getting messy, your child will sense that energy, which may in turn interfere with their natural curiosity. 

I often catch myself concerned with the way my child chooses to manipulate the materials at hand. My instinct is to change her movements to the way I know to be “correct”. I have made a conscious effort to simply notice how children use the tools that I offer them. I am not judgmental, rather curious, and I use that knowledge to direct how I set up and lead future activities. I go through a filtering process before intervening in the activity. Here is how I see it: When your child asks to take part in something, ask yourself first “Is it safe?” If your answer is Yes then tell yourself that your approval will help your child grow by giving them the opportunity to explore at their own pace and make discoveries on their own terms. This shows them that you respect their ideas and strengthens their self-confidence. When you begin the activity, if things get messy and you find it difficult to settle your nerves, ask yourself  “Can it be easily cleaned in the end?” If your answer is Yes, than relax and witness the magic. Give them the tools to manifest their dreams. Notice the materials that are popular. Mimic the movements of your child’s hand to feel what they are feeling. Notice the marks they make on the paper. And share what you see with your child. Praise their creative choices and safe habits. If you are curious about how to talk to your child about their art experience and finished products, read my post about the Language of Learning from Art Engine.

Are you ready for your next creative endeavor?