The Value of Art in the Homeschool Curriculum

Art is one of the most neglected subjects when it comes to Homeschooling children. The truth is, though, art is extremely valuable to your child's education!

When it comes to most of the subjects children concentrate on at home, there are definitive answers. Math is made up of set formulas and numbers, leaving little room for mistakes. But, as Scott Adams once said, "Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep."

Art is essential to opening a child's mind and allowing them to feel free and to test their own imagination without fear of getting it "wrong".

So what are the important things to focus on when you are teaching art in a homeschool environment?

Children need to see art to understand its beauty and power. Show them pictures, take them to museums and teach them the differences between the artists.

Making your own art is fun and essential. How often during your school day do you really get to do something so hands on? Fun projects include creating your own Impressionist paintings and mimicking the art of great painters in history; making your own sculptures; drawing freestyle designs. It's a great time to bond with your children so make the most of it.

And one of the most important parts of homeschooling art is making sure to tie art in with the other subjects you are teaching. History ties in easily when studying the various artists and periods. Geometry is also a huge part of learning about art, so make sure to do some fun projects that include learning about shapes and putting them together to create art of your own.

Have fun with it and you will find that teaching art in your homeschool curriculum is both fun and rewarding!

Homeschool Curriculum
Homechooling and the Homeschool Curriculum