Notes on talking with kids about the art they make

Hello grown-ups! Please join me in reimagining the ways we, as adults, perceive and respond to art made by children. 

 

A child's artistic language exists outside the bounds of spoken languages and outside the context of the broader systems – created by adults – that govern societies. It is important that children's voices are not quelled by well meaning grown-ups suggesting that children's art be pretty, true-to-life, or even "display-able". Approaching their artwork with joy and curiosity encourages creativity, their excitement in the process, and confidence. These are a few lines I often use: 

“Tell me more about it!”

A child’s scribble might be inspired by a feeling or an imaginary world, or may simply be the product of a fun moment playing with art materials. Assuming it needs to “be” a specific something or an accurate representation of what *your* eye see is limiting to a child’s imagination and artistic confidence.

“I’m drawn to the way you used lines over here and dots over here.”

Specific comments show children you are see them and their work. Instead of leading with “cool!” or “it’s so pretty!,” try making an observational comment about one or two aspects of their art. “You used mostly circle shapes here” or “I wonder how you decided to use red over here?” You affirm their creativity and process by noticing it and being curious about it, even if they don’t have an answer to your curiosities.

“What do you want to do with this piece next?"

Giving children the power to decide what to do next with their artwork is a way to further stretch their creative muscles. Maybe they want to use their piece as a backdrop for a puppet show, or mail it to a friend. They may add additional marks to it, fold it into a fortune teller, or display it proudly on the refrigerator. Art doesn't end with the piece is "done".