Bringing Art into the Home

Art is a very easy way to bring your child's school life into your home. Here are some things you might wish to try:

• Designate a drawer in the kitchen or living room as an art drawer, or use a bookshelf or sturdy cardboard box. A rubbermaid tub may be helpful as some of the materials can be a little messy!  In this space include crayons, marking pens, paper, a pair of scissors (if appropriate), tape/glue, collage material, paper, modeling clay, washable paint...whatever your child might use.
• Designate an area where the child can use the art supplies, and let your child know.  Some art supplies can be messy, so it helps if it's a space that's covered with paper or plastic, or can be wiped easily.
• Encourage your child to take out the art materials and use them independently at any time.
• Find places to display your child's art--on the refrigerator, on a wall in the child's room or in a hallway. Displaying children's art lets them know you think it's important and attractive.
• Asking questions about your child's art can also be encouraging.  Making comments such as, "I see you used a lot of color on this picture today!" or "Which picture should we put on the refrigerator?" helps your child see that you care about their activities.

Children love art, and bringing it into the home can be a wonderful way to encourage imagination and creativity!