Encouraging your Artist
Find the right space.
Turn off the TV and clear a space—a space you won’t mind getting a little messy every now and then. Some moms prefer the kitchen table, but if your kitchen table is made of beautiful granite or marble, the kitchen’s probably not ideal. However, if you don’t mind a little glitter or glue in the kitchen, by all means, let the creative juices fly. Finding a space really isn’t hard and it doesn’t have to be huge. If you remember that, you’ll be just fine.
Have the supplies ready!
That’s right. Get out the glitter, glue, paper and pencils. You definitely will need them. Getting your kids to care about crafts won’t be as easy if you don’t have the supplies. It’s even okay to get excited with them. Everyone has a favorite color—some even have multiple favorites. Start with yours, help the kids play and figure out theirs or even try creating new ones. Children love a good mystery, so get creative with the crafts. They’ll love it.
Crazy is okay! Own it.
Getting fancy with glitter then covering it all up with stickers, beads and stars is not unusual for a child who is embracing her creative side. Parents, don’t get lost in the sauce. Be supportive! Everything that’s meant to be pretty isn’t always just that. These are children, after all. Discovering the next Picasso may be a few years away; just remember to be supportive, giving lots of encouragement. Steer clear of pressure and don’t be abrasive. Too much pressure can turn your children off completely, making them lose interest and turn their attention back to the television. Believe me—once it’s gone, it’s gone!
Venture away from home.
Don’t get me wrong—focus is great, but when exploring your creative side, visiting a museum can really help. Salvador Dali, Andy Warhol and Vincent van Gogh didn’t get their post in some of the world’s most astonishing museums by staying home. Help your children find their favorite artists. It may even be fun! Ask them which artists they like the most. Follow up your visit with an activity or a challenge. See whether your children can recreate what they saw at the museum.
Show it off.
Displaying your child’s work of art will not only make you the world’s greatest parent, but it also will boost your child’s self-esteem: “My mom posted my picture on the refrigerator!” Put it on the fridge, on your desk at work or, if you really want to win the award for greatest parent, call your local library. The staff more than likely will be thrilled to have the next up-and-coming local 10-year-old talent showcased in their facility. Some libraries even have monthly contests where they give prizes for the best in show. Do your kids a favor and get them signed up.
Jessica Samuel is a native of St. Louis and a current Kansas City resident. She is a grad student, photographer and journalist.