Art Lessons
Art is such an important part of education and life that I insist that you include it in your education program. Art is liberating, creative, and gives humans a feeling of accomplishment. Art should be both instructive and it should also allow budding art students the freedom to create as they wish – so it’s important that all criticism is constructive, not demeaning.
Below I have provided a variety of art programs, lessons, and resources that you can use to integrate into your curriculum. I recommend combing some type of art education lessons along with free exploration. I find when children know the words used in art, they feel more comfortable talking about their artwork.
To get started, you will need to get supplies and prepare a space for art. What do I mean by space? Well, I highly recommend that you dedicate an area to art. A place where spills won’t matter to you. A place where you can allow your student(s) to not worry about making mistakes (in fact, this should be in all aspects of life. Life is full of mistakes, and teaching children how to respond to error is vital). Some parents like to set up an art table in the kitchen or over a surface that is easy to wipe up. If you are tight on space, then you may want to purchase a cheap rug or a durable plastic mat (like the type under desks).
Below I have provided a variety of art programs, lessons, and resources that you can use to integrate into your curriculum. I recommend combing some type of art education lessons along with free exploration. I find when children know the words used in art, they feel more comfortable talking about their artwork.
To get started, you will need to get supplies and prepare a space for art. What do I mean by space? Well, I highly recommend that you dedicate an area to art. A place where spills won’t matter to you. A place where you can allow your student(s) to not worry about making mistakes (in fact, this should be in all aspects of life. Life is full of mistakes, and teaching children how to respond to error is vital). Some parents like to set up an art table in the kitchen or over a surface that is easy to wipe up. If you are tight on space, then you may want to purchase a cheap rug or a durable plastic mat (like the type under desks).
Supplies
Portfolios
Students will keep their art work for each cycle in a portfolio. Portfolios come in many styles and can be made with a simple manila folder. Some educators prefer to use binders and portfolio inserts. No matter what style is used, allow the student to personalize it.
You may also want your students to have an art notebook where they can write down terms and information.
- Pencils
- Erasers
- Charcoals
- Palettes
- Paper towels
- Containers for paint water, etc.
- India ink
- Chalk
- Markers
- Crayons
- Colored pencils
- Watercolors (liquid and pan)
- Acrylic paints
- Tempura paints
- Oil pastels
- Chalk pastels
- Paintbrushes of all shapes and styles
- White glue
- Glue sticks
- Construction paper of all colors and sizes
- White copy paper
- Tissue paper
- Cardstock
- Scissors
- Yarn or string
- Felt
- Butcher paper
- Air-dry clay
- Playdough
- Modeling clay
- Toothpicks
- Popsicle sticks
- Beads
- Stamps and ink pads
- Brayer
- Sponges
- Glitter
- Pom poms
- Cotton balls and swabs
- Painter’s tape
- Coffee filters
- Old magazines
- Natural materials and recyclables
Portfolios
Students will keep their art work for each cycle in a portfolio. Portfolios come in many styles and can be made with a simple manila folder. Some educators prefer to use binders and portfolio inserts. No matter what style is used, allow the student to personalize it.
You may also want your students to have an art notebook where they can write down terms and information.
Elementary School Art Resources
In Print
Free Downloads and Resources
- Art Is Fundamental: Teaching the Elements and Principles of Art in Elementary School (this is my primary resource)
- The Art Teacher's Survival Guide for Elementary and Middle Schools
- Map Art Lab: 52 Exciting Art Explorations in Mapmaking, Imagination, and Travel
- How to Teach Art to Children, Grades 1-6
Free Downloads and Resources
- The ABC Art Program
- Primary Art Education Schedule
- Middle School Art Schedule
- KinderArt Lessons for All Ages
- Deep Space Sparkle (Has Art History Too)
- Art in Focus (a textbook on art history that also has load of art projects. one of my favorites to use).
Advanced Art Study
In Print
Free Downloads and Resources
Free Downloads and Resources
