In first grade I have the children paint drawings of balloons
using the primary colors, then the secondary colors (which they
mix right on the paper), then tints, then shades. This year
we're doing the Middle Ages so I had them do this, only on a
stained glass window that they drew and outlined in black oil
pastel. In grade two they make paper collage robots. First they
write their color scheme on an index card and list the colors
they'll be using. I keep a chart of the following color schemes
in the art room where all can see it: primary, secondary,
monochromatic, complementary, analogous, warm and cool. Third
graders use these color schemes to weave paper mats. Fourth
graders use them to weave with yarn. They make mats, pillow,
purses or wall hangings. Fifth graders use them for printmaking
or mask painting depending on what goes best with the theme for
the year . The idea is that by fifth grade they are thoroughly
familiar with color mixing and color schemes.