There are copious ways to explore the disciplines of art with young students. Below, I’ve outlined three possible ways you could allow a grade one class to try out each discipline.
Drawing
Use sharpies or crayons to draw on eggs or rocks, then dip in dye or paint.
Cut out a picture from a magazine then add your own elements using felts.
Let kids “draw” on a scratchboard using a stick.
Painting
Using alternative objects as paintbrushes.
Tape lines/shapes/words on canvas then let kids finger paint. Once paint is dry, remove tape.
Printmaking
Make a imprint in styrofoam (with pen or pencil), then use it as a stamp
Dip string in paint and place on half of paper, then fold paper to make mirror image.
Sculpture
Make a paper mache object (for example, a mask).
Make an abstract sculpture out of pipe cleaner and styrofoam and knick-knacks.
Mixed Media
Take a photo and then doodle on it using a tablet.
Make a texture collage.
New Media
Make light up drawings using conductive tape and LED stickers (teacher can then connect battery).
Make a sound garden.
Make “pixel art” in Minecraft.
I love sharing resources, so if you come across any great art activities that introduce one of these key disciplines please share it in the comments below.
