Encouraging the Artist in Your Child (Even If You Can't Draw): 101 Failure-Proof, Home-Tested Projects for Kids Age 2-10

I sheepishly admit that I hardly glanced at this book when I purchased it. It was on the recommended reading list for the art program my son is using for homeschool and it was the only book on the list that was for his age/grade. I assumed it was just another reading book, so I was surprised, albeit pleasantly, when it arrived and I found it to have so many wonderful ideas and suggestions and projects inside.As I read the book I find that she definitely knows children. The way she describes the ages of my boys is just about exactly where they are.She encourages "free art" which is a great boost for my morale. I have always felt that children should be free to draw and paint and do art in anyway they see fit (although I am not as strict as she in regards to coloring books). My older relatives have tried unsuccessfully to "teach" my oldest son to do things their way and have not only failed, but created a tension between themselves and him.I highly recommend this book. It will give you so many wonderful ways to spend the day with your children even if you do not homeschool.

This book is excellent for parents or teachers of young children. It gives easy instructions with illustrations for completing projects in the areas of drawing, painting,collage, yarn craft and sculpture. The book is divided into two sections: ages 2-5 years and 6-10 years. As a primary school teacher, and a mum of four children, I found the book to be an excellent resource for Art classes and general art activities for a fun session. The exercises range from very basic ideas to more complex projects and suit the different age groups well. I have used the book with children older than 10 years with similar success and personally have improved my artistic skills by tackling the projects with the children. The book also was useful as a stepping stone for other creative ideas. Anyone with no artistic talent or knowledge will find this book useful as well as the more experienced Art teacher looking for new ideas. I initially borrowed this book from the local libraray but found it to be such an invaluable resource that I wanted to buy my own copy.