How to Do Summer Art Projects with Your Kids

Have your child decorate his own beach towel.

Beat the summer malaise with your kids with summer art projects. Doing summer art projects with your children passes the time and teaches them about creative expression, basic art concepts and how to complete a project from start to finish. Websites such as Enchanted Learning or Scholastic have a variety of project ideas. Focus on summer-themed art that celebrates flowers and gardens, the sun, water and the beach. Vote on a final project or draw straws, and plan the project not chosen for another day.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Project supplies
• Clean workspace
• Project instructions
• Cleaning supplies
• Paper, fabric, crayons, paint and general art supplies
• Sunscreen
• Hats

1. Clean off a large, flat work space. Child-size furniture works well, because kids can better work in an environment scaled just for them. Otherwise, clear off the kitchen table or a clean area on the tiled or hardwood floor.

2. Set out art supplies so everyone can access them easily. Clear bins and jars work well and provide quicker cleanup.

3. Explain the art project clearly and simply, reading instructions aloud, or having your child read them to you. Clear up any confusing areas if your child asks.

4. Allow your child to take the lead on the project, staying close by in case he needs your assistance. Give him the freedom to express himself, and expect nothing more than enjoyment from the project. Instilling a love for art and a drive for creative expression is more important than technique, especially for younger kids.

5. Make your own project, if you desire, but encourage your child to follow his own instincts and style.

6. Help with any difficult or dangerous tasks, depending on your child's age. This may include punching holes, tying knots for very young kids or using hot irons or sharp objects.

7. Clean up the project area together when finished. Emphasize the importance of cleaning up to keep an organized and welcoming work environment for next time.

8. Engage in art that takes you outdoors. Making paper sailboats to place in a pond or fountain, painting the landscape, making a pinata, personalizing beach towels and mixing colored water to paint a giant piece of paper all encourage more time outdoors.

9. Place art supplies in an accessible place for spontaneous projects throughout the summer. Fabric swatches, paper, crayons, colored pencils, kids paint and brushes, beads for older kids, colored paper and paste all work well.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply sunscreen and wear hats when outdoors.

References

• Kaboose: Kids Summer Crafts
• U.S. Department of Education: Let's Do Art!
• DLTK's Growing Together: Other Summer Crafts for Kids

Resources

• Enchanted Learning: Summer Crafts, Activities and Worksheets
• Scholastic Teahchers; Summer Activity: Art for a Sunny Day; Ellen Booth; June 2005