Artistic Kids

Art Supplies and Toys

 

The kitchen in the Bryson home is plastered with paintings. A still life featuring a bowl of fruit is taped to the refrigerator. A family portrait (four stick people and a little stick dog) is taped to the oven door. There are various paintings in which super heroes save people from burning buildings, save a drowning boy, and fly through the air with birds and airplanes. “Sam is currently in a painting phase,” says his mom. “This week, it’s superheroes. Last week it was horses. The new medium is finger paints, but before that we went through two boxes of crayons. He’s definitely learning to express himself!”

 

 

And Sam is doing a lot more than just decorating the kitchen. Creating art is a great way for kids to increase fine motor skills, and figure out the world around them by recreating what they see (or imagine). Provide your child with encouragement and a few basic art supplies, and watch him develop his creativity!

 

 

Basic Art Supplies

 

 

Paper

 

 

You can never have too much paper! White paper, colored paper, lined and unlined. One of the most basic art supplies, it’s inexpensive and comes in a wide variety of sizes, colors and even textures.

 

 

• Freezer paper can be found at the grocery store near the aluminum foil. It’s great for painting, since the back side is covered in with a plastic film.
• Save and reuse paper from your office – kids can color and create art on the back side.
• Keep a bin full of paper scraps for smaller projects.
• You can purchase long rolls of paper for your art center. Unroll a long piece across the kitchen floor to make a mural.

 

 

 

 

Crayons, markers and paints

 

 

Get as fancy as you want here, depending on the age of your child. Basic water color paints can be found at the dollar store or grocery store – the same goes for crayons and markers. There are many kinds of paint, from finger paint to acrylics.

 

 

• Buy age-appropriate paints and markers.
• Imported crayons have been found containing lead – be careful when purchasing art supplies. Try to stick to products manufactured in the U.S. and ask for help when buying acrylic or oil-based paints for children.
• Washable markers and crayons are available! Obviously a great idea for little kids.
• Paint smocks are also a great investment, especially if you’re using non-washable paint.
• “Real” art kits are available at art supply stores. These are typically for older children, and come with an array of paint tubes and brushes.

 

 

 

 

Other Cool Gadgets

 

 

• Scissors of all kinds. Some scissors create patterns like zig zags or scallops.
• Paper punches. Not just the plain hole variety! Check your craft store – you’ll find dozens of shapes.
• Sidewalk chalk is great fun and completely washable.
• Sculpting dough can be purchased or made at home. Make sure, if you buy it, to get non-toxic dough.
• An easel gives kids great range of motion when painting or drawing.
• Beads and buttons are fun for kids over the age of three

 

 

Art Toys

 

 

There are tons of great toys on the market that inspire creativity. Check your local craft store or toy store for kits that help kids do everything from weaving to making jewelry. You can find kid versions of pottery wheels, tie-dye art sets, or rock tumblers. Grab your little artist and head for the toy or craft store, or go online to see what excites him!