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...]
Read Aloud and Respond with Art!
March 5th, 2014 is World Read Aloud Day! Every year, on the first Wednesday in March, Litworld (a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting literacy around the globe) mobilizes children and adults everywhere to advocate for literacy as a basic human right belonging to all people. Reading aloud is a natural way to celebrate the written word and to share it with … [Read more...]
Wishing You a “Perfectionism-Free” New Year
"As a painter I shall never really count, I can feel that absolutely." ~ Vincent Van Gogh, 1889, Arles Vincent Van Gogh never knew what a great artist he was. His paintings sell for millions today, yet in his lifetime, he only ever sold one painting. What fascinates me is that he didn't let this stop him.... he kept painting. Even when he received no outside appreciation for … [Read more...]
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, … [Read more...]
Feed Your Creative Soul – with a Sketchbook
Most art teachers I know struggle to find time for pursuing their own artwork.... so if that's you, you're not alone! Summertime provides a great opportunity for teachers to do things they otherwise set aside during the school year. But if we're trying to teach our students how important art is, should we really be putting off our own art until summer? (I'm speaking to myself … [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...]
How to Create Your Own Art Lessons Inspired by Children’s Books
If you love kids' art, you've probably had the experience of being totally charmed and inspired by a book written and illustrated for kids! And chances are, the book that captured your attention will have the same effect on your students... especially when your enthusiasm shines through! Why not capitalize on the wonder and magic of that special book and use it as the launch … [Read more...]
Using Children’s Books for Inspiration
Spring means we're heading into the homestretch of another school year! Sometimes we all need a shot of inspiration to make it from Spring Break to that long-awaited Last Day of School. Finding a new lesson plan on a favorite blog or Pinterest page is always inspiring, but don't forget that you can create wonderful art lessons of your own, as well. Children's books, with … [Read more...]