Create Creative Kids! But ... what do they need?
Getting Creative
My favorite supplies for creating art with kids!
So you aren’t in touch with your creative side but you feel like your kids are … or at least you’d like them to be! Where do you start in creating a space for them to shine? You obviously don’t need a lot of supplies. After all, kids are notorious for creating epic forts with boxes and contraband sharpies. I firmly believe however that a few fun supplies on hand can let kids double down on their creative flair. Also instead of buying ANOTHER hot wheel or barbie for a birthday, consider some art supplies to keep them learning.
Skip the Kit
Its really tempting to hit the easy button on art supplies and buy a pre-made kit for kids to work with. I’ve given them as gifts myself so no shame in that game….. BUT they aren’t teaching kids how to be creative but instead teaching them to replicate someone else idea of art. Pretty lame. They are also usually come with substandard quality materials and are a total one use wonder. If you are going to go for a single use moment, try a cool sketch book and an array of colored gel pens, or even a big coloring banner and paint sticks! Here are some favorites:
Setting the scene
I keep a few key supplies on hand that can be used over and over again. In order to not go crazy you’ll need some supplies to wrangle the clutter and also tame the mess while creating. So consider having a dedicated space with some organized bins of supplies grouped by type, spill proof paint pots and some plastic trays to work on. Also throw in a smock or two if you don’t have dedicated play clothes or a tarp to work on to protect your floors.
Art Self Help Books
All creative people will tell you that sometimes you need inspiration to get the creative engine running. I personally take mandatory trips to the Dallas Museum of Art to see their collections to keep my mind curious and creativity fed with new visuals. They also have amazing programming for kids and families if that is something you’d like to incorporate into your creative approach. But I get that sometimes there just isn’t time to seek inspiration outside the house. Enter how-to books. Sitting down with a drawing instructional book, clay building app or project idea starter can be a refreshing jolt to creative block.
What supplies to Actually Snag
Actually stocking your cabinets with supplies is super fun. I like to take a trip to a craft store and get new supplies that look interesting or fun! I’m well aware that might feel overwhelming if art isn’t your wheel house. So here are some favorites to get you started on the journey. Paper in a variety of colors, different types of paint and markers, glue and fun things to glue together all in stock ready to create!
Everything you need:
*contains affiliated links but opinions are my own!