Art for Kids

Art has always been a big part of our family life. When my older kids were small, we did some art every day. My daughters were very into painting and creating artworks of all kinds. Our home always was well supplied for art activities, from clay, paint,chalk and crayons and markers, to building sculptures from wood and wire to sewing and crochet. I feel that the early exposure and experience has paid off for them. My oldest daughter Laura, now 20 is a talented artist, you can see some of her work and ideas on her blog here. Her sister Emily is quickly following in her footsteps, but with her own kind of style. Now both boys, ages 14 and 12 are taking art classes and showing the same natural talent for art. Needless to say that I am thrilled.

Now I have been trying to gently nurture Sophie's growing interest and talent in the arts. She loves to sing and make music with hand instruments. She is very into painting and using the glitter! Glitter oh my!! I have found that she does best when I am somewhat involved, even as much as doing my own art next to her. She loses interest quickly when left alone, except at her easel, she will spend long moments painting there. She also loves play dough, though at this time is limited to punching and rolling, sculptures we have not attempted yet. Sophie and I enjoy reading fiction books about art, here are some we have enjoyed. Does anyone have any others that would be appropriate for a four year old?

A Piece of Chalk by Jennifer Ericsson
Willow by Denise Brennen-Nelson
Ish by Peter H. Reynolds
In the Garden with Van Gogh by Julie Merberg (a board book for the littlest ones)
Linnea in Monet's Garden by Christina Bjork
A Day With No Crayons by Elizabeth Rusch
The Pencil by Allan Ahlberg
Mouse Paint by Ellen Stoll Walsh
The Art Lesson by Tomie de Paola
Emily's Art by Peter Catalanotto
Anna's Art Adventure by Bjorn Sortland
and of course, the original art book, Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crocket Johnson

For helping teach art or just exposing your kids to it, I also recommend these fine books;

Nature's Art Box and Recycled Craft Box by Laura C. Martin

The Kid's Multicultural Art Book by Alexandra Terzian

Drawing with Children by Mona Brookes

Check them out at your local library and enjoy!!