Designed for parents and teachers of children aged three to five, Artistic Pursuits: The Way They See It is an insightful guide to fostering a young child's creativity and artistic development. This isn't a traditional workbook, but a curriculum written to the adult, helping them understand the unique ways children see and interpret the world through art.
The book is a blend of education and hands-on projects, with two main sections. The first, "The Nature of Children's Artistic Development," provides valuable background information on the stages of art creation in preschoolers. It helps adults appreciate the process-oriented nature of early childhood art and offers guidance on how to encourage a child's artistic growth without stifling their imagination.
The second section, "First Skills," contains a series of easy-to-follow, engaging art projects that build foundational fine motor skills and introduce basic art concepts. Each lesson includes a discussion of a famous work of art, allowing children to see how master artists have used the same principles they are learning. The book uses readily available materials like crayons, markers, play-doh, and paper, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for both the child and the adult.
By focusing on a child's natural curiosity and personal expression, The Way They See It helps turn simple art time into a meaningful educational experience. It's the perfect resource for any parent or teacher who wants to nurture a lifelong love of art in their youngest students.