Inspired by Paula’s recent rousing film, I was keen to put some images together to illustrate the things the children in my class do with their hands. It shows them in the process of making, the work in progress by showing the process or technique and some final pieces.
Art For All
Being creative, in any media, should be an essential part of everyone’s leisure time and contributes to our well-being. Whether it is doodling, cutting, filming on your phone or moulding plasticine, making time to recharge our creativity makes us feel better and therefore is an essential part of children’s daily curriculum. It is appropriate for all ages and levels of ability.
Finding time to learn a new skill or craft, or nurture a hidden talent can be very rewarding. There are lots of short 1 day courses or have a look in the local library were shelves are dedicated to crafting with things found around the home. I have an upcoming workshop to forge a poker, make a clay tile and create a brooch.
Activities, held after school and at lunchtime, for my classes have included making props and signs for the school play, junk modelling, slow stich, knitting and circus headdresses.
It is important that teachers refrain from telling their class that they can’t draw themselves, as Art is much more than simply drawing with a sense of realism. The children should see teachers and adults engage as makers.