Even if your child isn’t destined to be the next Picasso, it’s worth it to give them support and encouragement in their endeavors. Here are five simple things parents can do to encourage their young artists and give them a gift that they will carry with them forever.
1. Do encourage your child and give them plenty of praise, but be smart about it. Rather than loudly proclaiming every piece to be the best thing you’ve ever seen, point out specific things that you notice about their work and emphasize how much you can tell that they enjoyed doing the work. You can also give them ideas on new things to try and ask them questions about their technique.
Giving lots of praise seems like a good idea, but it gives children the idea that being good at art is something inherent, rather than a skill they can work on and improve. It also puts too much emphasis on the finished product rather than the experience. This takes the joy out of creation and makes your child less willing to take chances and try new things.
2. Provide your child with art supplies and a place to work. Don’t worry, you don’t have to go overboard! A corner of the kitchen or playroom where it’s okay to spill a little paint is perfect. Add a table and maybe a sturdy easel and you’ve got the perfect place for your artist to work. A little apron or artist’s smock is a nice touch, but one of mom or dad’s old t-shirts works just as well to protect clothing.
You can gradually build your child’s collection of art supplies, there is no need to run out and get everything at once. Melissa and Doug makes a range of non-toxic, easy to use art supplies that you can order online as well as economical rolls of paper for painting and other projects.
Don’t forget to start a collection of “found” objects to use as art supplies. Bits of leftover wrapping paper, foil, stray buttons, scrap of cloth and natural objects like dried leaves and pine cones can all find a home in your child’s art.
3. Explore resources in your community. Many local children’s museums and art galleries run programs for the public that will teach your child different art techniques. Some are even free or very low cost. The best way to find out about these programs is to visit each institution’s website and sign up for their newsletter and/or follow them on social media sites like Facebook or Twitter. Your local newspaper, free weekly or parenting website can also give you the heads-up on special events or ongoing classes.
If you live in an area without these resources or are pressed for time, the Internet can be a useful tool. Not only can you order art supplies online, you can also find ideas for wonderful projects to do with your little artist. Learning new skills and techniques can help keep your child’s interest in art alive while at the same time improving his or her abilities.
Authors Jacob and Carol Maslow are the proud parents of five preteen children who have learned from experience that real toys don’t require batteries. Carol works as a therapist, specializing in integrating developmentally delayed preschoolers with their classmates. Jacob works at online retailer Today’s Concept, where parents can find the classic Melissa and Doug Toys.