Do’s and Don’ts For Parents Who Want to Encourage Their Artistic Child

Do not draw for your child.  Kids need lots of room to draw, scribble, paint and experiment.  There will be a time for representational drawing later.  Right now it really doesn’t matter if it “looks like” anything to anyone at all.  The point is to enjoy the process of putting color on paper.  Your child will get more out of drawing herself than watching you do it "right".

Do provide a variety of art supplies.  Your materials can be recycled, used or old—no worries.  The important thing is that your child has access to the supplies she needs to make art.  Make an art station in a high-traffic area where your kids can experiment with different media.

Do frame your child’s art and hang it prominently.  Little (and big) artists need to know their work is respected and enjoyed.  A framed piece for family viewing (or presented to a friend as a gift) is a high honor and sends the message art is important and valuable.

Do not make decisions about what you think the art looks like. The point here is process, not product.  Comment on colors, lines and ask your child to tell you more about it.  It’s important for kids to feel free to create without judgment or evaluation.  Beware of praise—too many compliments can create unwanted pressure for your developing Degas.

Do commission your young artist to make a special piece for you.  This is especially helpful for kids who continue to show interest in art beyond the preschool years.  By soliciting a piece you introduce your kids to the business side of art.  Be sure to compensate your artist accordingly.

Do deal with your own issues about art as a viable occupation.  In today’s highly visual society, art has never been in greater demand.  If you think art is a waste of time or a second-best choice for continued education, please keep it to yourself.  Your child has the best chance of figuring out her future in art if you do not interfere with the process and allow her ample exposure to real-world artists who are dealing with the ups and downs of becoming a professional artist.

Do expose your child to great art.  From craft fairs to the Met and everything in between, your children need to build their visual memory for lines, texture, color and design.  This kind of input will show up later at the dining room table when your little one puts pen to paper, and in his dreams at night.

Do you have other ways you’re encouraging art at home?  Any questions?  The comments are open for your input.