There is growing evidence that enjoying playful and creative activities is really good for us. No matter what your age, finding someway to express yourself creatively has all kinds of benefits. And let’s be honest making time to play in this way is just plain fun.
In my mind one of the best ways to connect with children is to be creative with them. I always enjoyed sitting down with my boys to create something together. Sometimes it would be as simple as coloring a picture or doodling side by side, other times it would be a more elaborate project. As we created we would talk….or to be honest they would talk and I would listen.
Somehow making art created a relaxed atmosphere that allowed us to enjoy each others company and perhaps talk a little deeper than we usually did.
Below are six collaborative art projects for you to enjoy with your children. Some projects take a little more preparation and others are easy peasy and can be done at a moments notice. I hope they will spark your imagination and jump start some connection.
1. Tinkerlab has some great resources for sparking the imagination. Pop over and read this post in which Rachelle describes how she and her daughter create a collaborative sketchbook. I really appreciate the way Rachelle follows her daughter’s lead and focuses on the process rather than stressing over the end result.
2. Head over to Artful Parent to learn how to make interactive heart mandalas. Aren’t they beautiful?
3. Professional artist Alisa Burke describes how she enjoys making art with her toddler.
4. This art project was originally designed for use in the classroom. Still I think it’s something a family could do together. This is a really easy project and no art skills are required.
5. This project was inspired by Andy Warhol and would be fun for a family to do together
6. Last but not least is a drawing game from Creative With Kids. This one is really easy and requires no preparation.
A Few tips For Collaborative Art
- Keep it simple
- Let your children take the lead
- Remember it is the process that is most important NOT the end result. It really doesn’t matter how it turns out as long as you have fun together.
- Set up your art projects so that you don’t have to worry about the mess. Use drop cloths or take it outside. It can be helpful to make sure each family member has a set of painting clothes that can get messy. Keep old towels handy for clean up.
(Rediscovered Families)
Website Link: rediscoveredfamilies.com
Article Link: https://rediscoveredfamilies.com/6-collaborative-art-projects-families/
