How to Teach Kids to Paint
Art education is important in the development of children. Studies have shown that creative children learn important skills in problem-solving and critical thinking. Encouraging your child to express herself through art can help her relate to other school subjects and learn more about different cultures and history. One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to bring out your child's inner artist is to teach him to paint.
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Instructions
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Take your child on outings to develop more of an artist's eye. Talk about your surroundings in art terminology, such as color, shape and texture. This will provide an opportunity for you to pique her interest and get her excited about her art projects.
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Purchase or gather your materials and designate a place to paint. Set up an area with drop cloths, work tables, and clean-up materials. Assemble your art supplies. Water-based paints such as tempera and acrylic dry faster and clean up more easily so they are the best choice for children. Get brushes, paper and other necessary painting tools ready.
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Teach your child how to work with the materials. Explain to him how to get the best results from the paint he's using, how to keep his brushes clean and other tips and tricks. If he understands what he is working with he will have more success with his project and be less likely to make a mess.
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Teach age-appropriate color theory and art technique. Explain the importance and enjoyment of the creative process and don't put as much emphasis on the final outcome.
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Make painting fun for kids. If they feel they are being forced to learn they may reject the idea. However, if you turn it into a fun game or activity, they will be more enthusiastic and more likely to want to keep expressing themselves creatively.
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Tips & Warnings
The Web is a great resource for painting crafts and projects. There are step-by-step tutorials to help even the most artistically challenged parents teach their kids to paint.
Some paints can be toxic and harmful if swallowed; check labels and make sure you are using safe products that are age-appropriate.
