There's no better way to teach art history and cultural literacy to kids than with projects inspired by famous artists. But did you know that how you introduce the artist can make or break the success of your project? This is where famous artist books for kids can save the day. Kids love stories (who doesn't?) so you can get their attention right from the start by … [Read more...]
Learning from Henri Nouwen & Vincent van Gogh
Vincent van Gogh used to be one of my favorite artists.... until I read this book. I thought I already knew a lot about van Gogh, but "Learning from Henri Nouwen & Vincent van Gogh - A Portrait of the Compassionate Life" by Carol A. Berry taught me much more than I was expecting. Now van Gogh is more than just "one of my favorites" - he will forever be my MOST … [Read more...]
Most Important Book of 2017
When you read as many books as I do, to say that one book stands out as “most important” of the year is saying a lot. The term “most important” reflects impact of a global nature, going beyond what affects me personally to the issues that affect us all as human beings. It’s more than just inspiring and life-changing for me. This book has the potential to affect our society as a … [Read more...]
Most Life-Changing Book of 2017
There are lots of great books out there, but if you’re honest, how often do you read a book that you can truly say changed your life?? When that happens, it’s magical…. and it happened to me last April with The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins. I discovered this book while listening to the Storybrand podcast (#37), where host Donald Miller was interviewing the author, Mel … [Read more...]
Most Inspiring Book of 2017
My favorite books this year have not been books about teaching art to kids, or even books about ART at all. But they are relevant to teachers and parents…. and everyone, really. The three books I’ll be sharing with you are inspiring, life-changing, and important. The most inspiring book I read this year was A Little Radical - The ABC’s of Activism, by Danica and Jason … [Read more...]
Book Review: Drawing Cartoons Letter By Letter by Christopher Hart
Drawing Cartoons Letter by Letter is the latest in a series of learn-to-draw books by Christopher Hart. I received a free copy in exchange for my honest review, so here it is! The concept of using a letter or number as the framework for beginning a drawing is not new. In fact, I already had a similarly themed book in my collection. But several things set this book … [Read more...]
Make a Leaf Collage
Now that summer’s here, how do you keep your kids learning, creating, and spending more time outdoors than in front of a screen? One way is with this inspiring little book, “Look What I Did with a Leaf!” by Morteza E. Sohi. This is not so much a read-aloud type of book that you would share with a roomful of students, but rather a book to enjoy at home with your kids, or for … [Read more...]
Christmas in July! Origami Crane Ornaments
Students love to bring home these exquisite origami cranes to hang on their Christmas tree! I make these with my 5th & 6th graders, and even though this is not a beginner level project, every year I have at least one student with a passion for origami who already knows how to make them! While these cranes are challenging, they're definitely do-able, and they're such fun to … [Read more...]
“Teaching with Love and Logic: Taking Control of the Classroom” by Jim Fay and David Funk
If you've ever felt stressed by classroom management, you need this book... Teaching with Love and Logic: Taking Control of the Classroom by Jim Fay and David Funk. It may sound corny to say that this book could change your life, but it very well might! When I first started out as a new teacher, I felt woefully unprepared in the area of classroom management. My credential … [Read more...]
How Full Is Your Bucket?
The books that inspired this lesson have nothing to do with art, and the illustrations were not what attracted me! What I LOVE about these books is their message. And what better way to drive home a great message than with a fun art lesson??! Inspired by a bullying episode at my school, I saw this idea as a way to make a difference, so I had to try it. I figured if even one … [Read more...]
