Parent Resources

Welcome to our creative community!

You are the first 'audience' for your child’s art, and your encouragement is the secret ingredient to their confidence.

❓How to Talk to Your Child About Their Art

Instead of "That's pretty!" or "What is it?", try these open-ended questions to spark a deeper conversation:

• "Tell me about your process." (This lets them explain how they made it.)

• "I noticed you used a lot of [Blue/Jagged Lines/Smooth Texture]—what made you choose that?" (This shows you are truly looking at their work.)

• "What was the most challenging part of this project?" (Focuses on problem-solving.)

• "How do you feel about this piece?" (Encourages self-reflection over seeking outside approval.)

✍️Our "Effort over Skill Policy"

In this studio, we grade based on Studio Habits, not just "natural talent." I want parents to know that:

• Mistakes are Data: In our room, a "ruined" painting is just a chance to learn how the paint behaves.

• Process > Product: A messy sketchbook full of experiments is often more valuable than one perfect drawing.

• The Sanctuary Rule: My goal is for every student to feel that art is a place where they can take risks without fear of "being bad at it."

♻️ The Upcycle Wishlist

Art teachers are professional scavengers! If you have these items at home, please send them our way:

• Newspapers & Egg Cartons (For our messy clay and paint days)

• Old Magazines (For collage projects)

• Clean Plastic Lids & Containers (Great for mixing)

• Bubble Wrap (We use this for printing textures!)

While we love 'found objects,' we want to make sure our studio stays a clean and safe sanctuary for everyone. Before sending items in with your student, please follow these two simple steps:"

• Clean & Dry: Please ensure all food containers (yogurt cups, egg cartons, etc.) are thoroughly washed with soap and water and are completely dry. This prevents odors and keeps our storage bins sparkling clean!

• Safety First: Please avoid sending anything with sharp edges (like opened tin cans) or items that contained common allergens like peanut butter.

I am always looking for unique materials! If you have something you'd like to donate that isn't on our list, please shoot me an email first so I can check our storage space and project schedule. 

📧 Contact: sbaumer@mycpms.net

🖼️Local Inspiration: Art in San Diego

Looking for a weekend activity? We are so lucky to live near world-class art!

• Balboa Park: Visit the San Diego Museum of Art or the Timken (which is always free!).

• Chicano Park: Explore the world-famous murals and talk about Scale and Public Art.

• La Jolla Secret Swings & Murals: A great way to see how art and nature live together.