Teaching Children to Draw
Wednesday April 5, 2006
Some people take a 'hands off' approach to children's art, which is something I find a little strange, considering they wouldn't dream of doing the same when it comes to sporting ability or music. Not that the hothouse approach is desirable - I'd hate to see kids turned off art by pushy adults and disappointing competitions. But, if you agree that drawing is a skill that can be learned, at some point you need to teach children to draw.
Drawing Exercises suitable for Children:
Wire Drawing
Blind Contour Drawing
A Simple Still Life
And of course, provide suitable art supplies for kids.
Drawing Exercises suitable for Children:
Wire Drawing
Blind Contour Drawing
A Simple Still Life
And of course, provide suitable art supplies for kids.
Comments
I JUST READ YOUR MESSAGE. THE HANDS OFF APPROACH WAS USED BECAUSE THE PARENTS FELT THEY DIDN,T WANT TO DISCOURAGE THE CHILDREN OR INTERFERE WITH PROGRESS. IF THERE WAS NO PRGRESSION WE WOULD ENCORAGE CHILDREN BY SAYING HOW GREAT THE PICTURE IS AND KEEP TRYING . BUT YOU ARE SHOWING A HANDS ON ASPECT THAT I HAVE TO SAY IS SOMETHING OF A CURIOUSITY TO ME BUT ALSO VERY ACHIEVIABLE. SOMETHING FOR ME TO THINK ABOUT. I AM 60 YEARS OLD AND ENJOY DRAWING AND SKETCHING. I STILL REFER TOO YOUR WEBSITE HELLEN SO KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK…. DAVE
I LOVE TO SEE THOSE DRAWINGS BY MEMBERS SO KEEP AN OLD MAN HAPPY AND KEEP SENDING THEM IN……….
Hi Dave, thanks for your comments. You’re the first!
You’re quite right – that was my experience as a child, too. Its hard when parents don’t know about art, too. As I emphasised in the article, you do have to be very careful not to discourage them. I try to keep guided drawing and creative drawing separate, and always give lots of praise.
I’m glad you’re enjoying the gallery – we have some very creative readers!