It isn’t hard to see that kids spend too much time staring at screens. Studies show that children ages 6-8 spend as much as 28 hours a week watching TV! That can’t be good for a developing mind. On the other hand, artistic activities help children develop focus, creativity, and patience. There are traits we know they will need to lead a happy life. A good place to start developing this habit is with Collage Art- it’s fun and easy to jump into right away.
Here are a few suggestions that should ignite a passion for making art:
Vision Board (Goal Collage)
It is never too early to your kid thinking about what is important in life. Many people say vision boards help them achieve better mental clarity and move towards their goals. This approach can easily be adapted for kids.
How to do it:
Start off by encouraging your child to think about some of their goals. Do they want to be an athlete? A doctor? A writer? Even at a young age kids like to daydream about their future. Either find some related images on the internet or in magazines and get pasting. A poster-board works great.
P.S. Your child should be coming up with what to put in the collage but that doesn’t mean you can’t guide them towards values that you want to be important. Example: “Is spending time with Mom and Dad important? Should a picture of our family be here?” Here are some ideas for collage art.
Book Cover Collage
This is a great way to also get your child excited about reading. The goal of this collage is to help your kid feel that finishing books is an accomplishment to be celebrated. It will also be constantly growing- just like your kid!
How to do it: Every time your child finishes a book, help them print out (or illustrate) the cover of the book to add to the collage. In no time it will become a ritual and make reading even more fun. Your child will be able to see, visually and beautifully, all of the books that they have read so far.
Family Photo Collage
This is a project that will make family vacations and events even more fun. It will also be something that you and your child can use to remember all of the fun times you’ve shared as they get older.
How to do it: Encourage your child to take pictures during family events. Even a few images are enough to get it started in the beginning, but it will definitely grow quickly! Feel free to ask your child why they like a particular photo or experience. You will get to know them better and it may even inspire them to grow into a reflective and thoughtful adult.