3 Easy Ways to Teach Art When You Aren’t Artistic
I have never enjoyed art. Never.
In fact, I may be the most art-challenged homeschool mom on the planet. However, I believe it’s important to allow my children to develop their skills and, hopefully, gain a love of art in the process.
Because of my complete lack of artistic ability, I’ve come up with a few easy ways to add art into our homeschool. I love that my kids can learn more about art and hone their creativity, even though I’m not an artist!
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3 Easy Ways to Teach Art When You Aren’t Artistic
1. Use Instructional Books
Never underestimate the power of simple instructional books to teach basic art concepts! Use art books to learn along with your kids, or hand them a book and let them explore it on their own.
We have used a variety of books to teach basic art concepts in our homeschool. My kids loved that they could follow step-by-step instructions in the books to work independently.
A few art books to consider:
Great Thumbprint Drawing Book – Thumbprint art is a great way to spark creativity in a reluctant younger artist! My own kids enjoyed this book when they were younger. All you need is the book, an inexpensive ink pad, and a pen or ultra fine point permanent marker.
Draw 50 Series – We have several books from this series – in fact, my art-loving daughter requested a couple of these for Christmas one year! Each of the 30+ books contains 50 themed drawings with step-by-step instructions. Themes include vehicles, horses, buildings, planes, and many more.
Art Lab for Kids – This book was written by a couple who operate an art school for kids. It contains 52 projects that use real art techniques in drawing, painting, printmaking, paper, and mixed media. Each project is illustrated with full-color photographs.
How to Teach Art to Children – This is a resource for parents or teachers who need help teaching art. It explains art concepts and includes 96 projects.
2. Attend a Co-Op Art Class
Co-ops are a wonderful way for kids to learn from another homeschool parent who has special skills or knowledge. If you have a local co-op, check to see if they offer any art classes that would be appropriate for your child.
Don’t have a co-op in your area? Consider swapping lessons with an artistic homeschool mom. Maybe you could tutor her child in math while she teaches your child art. Maybe she would enjoy an evening with free babysitting in exchange for an art lesson. Win-win!
3. Take Online Art Lessons
Online lessons are such an easy way to add quality art lessons into your homeschool. Students have the opportunity to learn at their own pace from skilled art teachers, usually for a very affordable price.
In addition, parents don’t need to spend valuable time driving their children to lessons. This is especially beneficial for larger families or families with younger children. Saving time AND sanity? Count me in!
Online Art Lessons for Kids
My 9-year-old son, Weston, has recently been using Sparketh Online Art Lessons. He absolutely loves the lessons and frequently asks if he can “do art.” I am thrilled that he is enjoying art and increasing his artistic ability!
Sparketh Online Art Lessons are available in 3 different levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Each course is also categorized by type, including technical lessons, art activities, and challenges. This makes finding appropriate courses a cinch!
Each course is divided into several short step-by-step videos. Weston was able to work completely on his own by following the video lessons. Huge plus!
Courses also include full materials lists, complete with links for easy ordering. I love that we can choose art projects and purchase the necessary supplies ahead of time – no frustrating surprises when Weston is ready to start a new course!
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