Arts and crafts for every child
Johann Christoph Arnold

In spite of the fact that most school systems treat art as a sideline, more and more educators are coming to realize what the art teachers have been saying all along: art is not a frill, but one of the most important and enjoyable areas of a child’s education.

Encouraging creativity and independence
Martin Rimes

Art is not separate from other areas of learning; rather, it stretches the mind and helps us learn to think. As children explore texture, shape, quantity, and proportion, they are grasping concepts intrinsic to maths and literacy, and the fine-motor skills and eye/hand coordination learned with artwork underpin future writing.

Enhancing literacy through process art
MaryAnn Kohl

This I know: If you want to hold the attention of a child, read a book out loud to him. If you want to see a child become easily and deeply involved in creativity, give him crayons and paper for free drawing. We know these truths to be self-evident, for we’ve seen and done them so many times we can’t begin to count them!

Getting the best from your art easel
Debi Keyte-Hartland

As an artist working in early years settings, I am often literally drawn to the art easel. But in working with many centres’ art areas, I have come to wonder if the artist easel as a creative resource is being used to best effect. Why are some easels full of engaged children experimenting with marks, colour, and ideas, while other easels stand unused?

Bubble printing
Mix a few drops of washing-up liquid, paint and a bit of water in a basin.

Blotto butterflies
These stunning butterflies are easy to make.  Decorate your home or let your children proudly make gifts out of them!

Finger painting
A lot of mess, but a lot of fun! A colourful starch base paint encourages big free movements. Finger paint on large sturdy paper or paint directly on a tabletop or inside a sand and water tray.

May baskets
A fun craft to do with your children in spring!