One error people make is thinking that the skills developed through reading and writing are only for reading and writing. That could not be more wrong because the ability to synthesize information, organize that information, and present that information in an intelligible way is important for everything from science to planning a trip.
Sometimes, it’s nice to mix things up a bit and help your child to develop their critical thinking skills while doing something that seems to have nothing to do with reading and writing. Mike Venezia’s Getting to Know series for ages 8+ is perfect for introducing your child to an artist and their style.
How to Use These Books
- Read the book with your kid. Yes. They can read it for themselves, but reading it with them, looking at the pictures, and discussing the information as you go, gives you a chance to share the experience. If you have younger kids, they can listen, too. Older kids can also take a moment to hear what’s going on.
- Ask your child/ren to tell you what they notice. If the conversation stalls, start by telling them you notice the colors or the shapes. Then ask again what they notice. The idea is to get them to really study the works and spot some things that stand out.
- Talk about what else you would draw if you were that artist. This will move your child to consider the body of work – without you telling them you’re talking about a body of work. By noticing the subjects of the paintings, they’ll be able to add on to what is there.
- Challenge yourself and your child to create in that style. It may mean first seeing what sort of materials are used – pastels, paint, pencil – and then gathering those materials.
- Write a sentence or two about the work you created. Include the name of the artist, the materials used, the subject selected, something about the style, and how you feel about your creation.
What To Do With Your Work
- Put your completed work in a notebook, box, or drawer.
- After you have completed works inspired by several different artists, make a list of the attributes, or things, you noted about that artist.
- You can create a table with columns for materials, subject, and style.
- Is there one artist you like most? Talk about why, and what draws you to that artist.
- Make a gallery of your work and invite some siblings or friends to visit.
- While they’re there, give them the opportunity to create a work of their own.