HOMESCHOOLING FOCUS ON: Art class

  For me, the biggest misconception about teaching art is that the teacher must be skilled. Is it necessary to draw perfectly in order to homeschool a child in art? I don’t believe so.

          There are so many forms of art in our world. Pigeon-holing it into just drawing or just painting is a mistake- not to mention its selling art short. Art is history. Art is scientific. Art is mathematical.

          One child may excel at drawing while another can only work with clay. We’ll never know unless we’ve given them creative license to try. Likewise, if the homeschooling teacher can only paint, his/her student may miss their gift. Exploring, be it in class or in play, is your only option in finding out what they can do.

          But what if I don’t have a creative bone in my body? There’s a class for that. But, I encourage you to let your child pick. Picking an art for them is robbing them of what could become their passion. You can always switch classes if it’s not working out.

          What if they balk altogether? Some children are naturally disinterested in art. However, they may love music. Are musicians not referred to as artists? Let them explore that. Dance, especially interpretative, is also artistic. Calligraphy, collages, & photography are all artistic expressions.

          If none of these pan out, teach art history. At the very least, they’ll learn how certain historic events have been depicted through art, such as in portraits. These lessons may even strike a child & encourage them to try. We certainly learned a lot studying Georgia O’Keefe.

          Lastly, make sure the other parent’s on board. Nothing sabotages a budding creative spirit better than a joy squelcher. If Dad thinks pottery is stupid & expresses this, you might as well pack it up. This also crops up in gender bias issues (girls’ activities vs. boys). If mom doesn’t think boys should take dance, she’ll impart this onto the child & he will lose interest.

          I double check certain ideas with my husband before I talk to the kids. He is assertive when it comes to voicing opinions, so there is no sense in wasting my time. The same sex parent is the child’s biggest influencer. Save yourself a battle & double check.

          Art can be a lot of fun & allow you to build a special bond with your child. Be realistic. Be honest. Do your best. It will work out.