What can we do for our own children when they show a true interest and talent in their art?
A first response could be to smother them with enthusiasm and classes and ideas about what they could do next. It's probably the easiest way to shut them down. 'What' they draw or make is not important. It is that they love to draw or make. Encourage that love, rather than pushing them to improve. That could cause them to become anxious. Be genuine and specific with praise. "Oh that's fantastic," every time your child makes something will soon fall on frustrated, deaf ears. Find something in the piece of art that is worthy of praise and say so. Eg; 'I like the colours you've chosen.' 'How did you make that colour?' Try not to be trapped. "That's an awesome cat." It might be a dog. Ask moving forward questions. Eg: "If you made this again, what would you change?" " What would you like to do with this?' . |
Have art/craft materials and books from the library at easy reach, specific to the field your child enjoys, Find websites appropriate for your child to explore.
. After school art classes have value. Ask around for a good one, where the children are motivated and above all, enjoy attending. What to do with your child's art? Art is for sharing, which is often confronting. Your child might want to keep his/her creations close. That's fine. But if they want others to see what they've made;
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