Why the prompt?
Art is a wonderful way for kids to express their creativity and develop important skills. By prompting kids during art time, you can help them explore new techniques, expand their imagination and build their confidence. It's super important to find the right balance between 'guiding' and 'taking over'. Here are some tips to help you prompt kids during art time while supporting their development.
1. Provide open-ended prompts
Instead of giving specific instructions or telling kids what to create, offer open-ended prompts that encourage their own ideas and interpretations. For example, you could say, "Maybe you could try mixing some colours to see what it creates." This allows children to think critically and make their own artistic choices.
2. Ask open-ended questions
Engage kids in a conversation about their artwork by asking open-ended questions. Try asking, "Tell me about your artwork. What inspired you? I wonder what would happen if...?" This encourages children to reflect on their creative process and express their thoughts.
3. Offer suggestions, not instructions
We've all been there - when the kids are asking you to takeover, or saying they're stuck. Resist the temptation to do it yourself. Instead, you can offer suggestions to spark their imagination. For example, you could say, "Have you considered adding some texture to your painting? Maybe you could try using a sponge or a piece of fabric." By offering suggestions instead of instructions, you allow children to make their own choices and explore different possibilities.
4. Encourage experimentation
Art is all about experimentation and taking risks. Encourage kids to try new materials, techniques, and styles. Let them know that it's okay if they don't love everything they create immediately, the fun is in the discovery. By fostering a sense of curiosity and exploration, you help children develop their artistic skills and discover their own unique style.
Side Note...
Consider how you talk about creativity collectively - including how you talk about your own artistic flair. We so often make blanket statements about ourselves, such as "I'm not creative" or "I'm a terrible drawer" and it can so quickly get picked up and tried on by our small people. Having said that, we're certainly not getting on our soap box - who needs another thing to worry about!
xx
Brooke
