Teaching Kids Art Through Picture Books

Mother's Day is just a few days away — and if you haven't quite landed on a gift yet, take a breath. You don't need a craft store run, a Pinterest board, or a perfect plan.

You just need a piece of cardboard, your recycling bin, and about an hour.

This week I released a new tutorial on YouTube: a flower collage made entirely from "found materials." Junk mail, old catalogues, buttons, pom poms, scissors, and glue. The finished pieces are surprisingly beautiful — layered, textured, full of color. The kind of thing Mom will actually want to keep.

It's also the kind of project that works for kids to do on their own — to make something special for you, for Grandma, or for another woman in their life they'd like to honor. Or you can sit down and do it with them and turn it into a creative afternoon together.

Watch the Tutorial

 The video runs about 16 minutes. I walk through the materials, the technique, and a few tips for helping kids get the most out of the project. I also share two ...

Here are a few tips from my homeschooling friends and me to help you relax and enjoy the ride--even during a pandemic!

1. Start the day with a story to signal the beginning of the day and to draw them together in a pleasant and attractive way.

2. Do the hardest subject when you have most energy.

3. Take timed breaks as needed. Run around outside for a few minutes if possible. Don't just plow through--kids need breaks!

4. Read aloud every day. My friend Sharon's favorite memory is "going to the library to get books for themed unit studies then cozying up with pillows and blankets in front to the fire and having a whole morning or afternoon just to read separately and together." She advises, "As you take in the responsibility of homeschooling your children, remember to have fun with them-plan for fun-do silly things from time to time! They will be grateful and you will make some good memories they will talk about when they are adults!"

5. Field trips are opportunities to do the big ...