Loose parts play refers to a style of play that involves open-ended materials or objects that can be manipulated, moved, and combined in countless ways by children. These materials are called “loose parts” because they are not fixed or limited in their use. They can be anything from natural elements like sticks, stones, and leaves to everyday objects such as buttons, fabric scraps, or empty
Art History
8 of the Best Spooky Artworks in Art History
Why should art always dance in the sunlight, wrapped in vivid hues and playful strokes? As autumn’s chill creeps in and shadows lengthen, a world of art is waiting in the twilight. It’s spooky season, after all!So, let’s captivate the young, curious minds with some of the eeriest, most mysterious, and haunting artworks in art
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Mixed Media
Unlock Imagination: Calder Fish Mobile Lesson – A Vibrant Dive into Kinetic Art & Modernism
This Calder fish mobile lesson has become a bit of a staple around here as there’s more to it than meets the eye. While we aren’t crafting a “true” mobile with every piece dancing around, this project is a great first step into some other big ideas.Ever heard of kinetic art? This project gives kids
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Art Education
How to make color theory actually fun
AKA, how to take one of the least creative bits of art education and make it inspiring. The issue with teaching color theory (most times) While color theory is definitely significant in art practice, the actual argument has arguably more to do with science than with art. This is to say, that color theory classes
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Inquiry-Based Learning
Reggio Emilia Classroom Design | Intro to Reggio Inspired Learning Spaces
The Reggio Emilia classroom is designed to inspire relationships: we imagine children moving across different areas, interacting with each other, experimenting with different textures and tools, moving materials into different settings to explore new properties and characteristics.
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Art Education
What is the Reggio Emilia Approach? | Intro to Reggio Emilia Teaching for Parents and Teachers
The Reggio Emilia approach is an innovative teaching philosophy that emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and community. This method was created by Loris Malaguzzi and a group of parents in Reggio Emilia, Italy, after World War II. It is known globally for its focus on children’s learning. [ref] “Three Approaches from Europe: Waldorf, Montessori, and Reggio Emilia,” Carolyn
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Art Education
Chinese Calligraphy for Kids: Hands-on Activities to Discover the Beauty of Chinese Calligraphy
Chinese calligraphy is a profound art form that goes beyond writing—it embodies Chinese culture, philosophy, and spirituality. Each brushstroke carries meaning and conveys energy and harmony. From ancient scripts like Oracle bone to modern styles like Semi-Cursive, calligraphy is a medium for self-expression and exploration. Join us on this journey to delve into the rich heritage and techniques of Chinese calligraphy.
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Art History
Creating Art for Social Change: How Art Can Inspire Activism
Art is a universal language that has the ability to transcend linguistic, cultural, and geographical barriers. It can provoke a range of emotions, from joy and happiness to sadness and anger, and it can convey powerful messages that can inspire change. Art has the power to move us, challenge our perceptions, and help us connect
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Painting
Decalcomania Painting Art Exploration | Inquiry Based Learning Lesson Plan
A Decalcomania is a kind of painting created by pressing a thin layer of wet paint between two surfaces. It can be done by folding papers in half, like in this lesson, or by picking up wet paint from a smooth surface (such as glass) with paper or canvas.