In our studio at school, we learn about artistic behaviors: coming up with ideas, setting up our workspace, learning new skills, and reflecting on our work. In our studio, the child is the artist and they make artistic choices about the materials they use and what they make. They are familiar with these expectations and are intrinsically motivated to make and create independently. Provide them with time, space, and art supplies and they will direct their own learning.

The following are ways you can support your child(ren) in their art making and learning while they are home. Follow their lead and enjoy watching their creativity in action. Join in if you are able - it’s fun!

3rd, 4th, and 5th graders...

• Become more aware of themselves and each other at this age and this can be seen in their artwork. They may stray from observational or realistic drawing if it doesn’t look “perfect” and they may explore abstract, non-objective art to avoid those feelings. That’s okay.

• Are not too old for blocks and building, and they love the opportunity to use those materials. Legos and blocks are sculpture materials. If that’s how they want to spend their art time, let them go to town!

• Can let younger siblings (if applicable) at home be their teacher and learn new techniques or skills from them (or make something together!). Collaboration is one of the great gifts of the choice art studio.

• Can solve their own problems. They can be very resourceful if given the opportunity. We learn by making mistakes, so while it may be frustrating for them, working through it is where the growth happens. They’ve got plenty of time to figure it out.

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