Guidelines for Creative Learning

 

1. A child's right to create:

Children are of course very easily influenced. So in dealing with creative activities, it is very important for a child to be allowed to express their own ideas. This is key to their learning and growing process. Give a child the opportunity to explore through art. If they ask questions, good but don't force anything on them. Introduce skills, techniques, materials, and tools and let them explore freely.

2. Set up prior to the activity.

Always familiarize yourself with the activity you are introducing to a child prior to beginning. Read instructions, learn about material , techniques, etc. Be organized in advance. A trial run is always best.

3. Stand back and give room.

Always provide an area that is more than large enough for a child to work in. Make sure they have plenty of materials, and be sure to move anything of value out of their way.

4. Expect the unexpected

Be flexible in your thinking. With children you never know what the project will turn out like, but always be positive.

5. Recognition.

Always show positive recognition for results, whatever they may be. Show interest, give supportive comments and advice. Always listen for a child's comments and feedback.

6. Evaluation

Watch the child and their growth through their art projects. Focus on the artistic process that the child uses and not the end result.

7. Messes are inevitable.

Things will get messy. But try and use some of the creative process used to make the mess in cleaning it up. Creativity is always the goal.

8. Display results.

Children are usually proud of their artistic masterpieces. So be sure to have a display to make them happy.