What to Say Instead of “What Is This?” When Children Show You Their Work
When young children create a piece of art, such as a drawing, painting or pipe-cleaning sculpture, adults usually react in two different ways. There is an enthusiastic expression: “It’s so beautiful! You are such an amazing artist! Let’s hang this masterpiece on the wall! “Or is it an empty look and the question:” What is this? “
Teachers say that neither one nor the other is of great help to the young artist. Children who are over- praised are often stressed and anxious to maintain high praise levels , so they tend to only try what is “safe”. And constantly ask children: “What is this?” imposes the idea that art should be something specific. (Jackson Pollock’s mom and dad probably never asked him, “Where is the sun, clouds and grass?”)
Instead, when talking about children’s drawings, adults should focus on the process rather than the product. As Linda Carson of Brilliant Star Magazine writes, “You try to convey their research to them without being too critical or too engaging – and leave plenty of room for them to talk, too. What they think about their work is more important than what you or I think. “
Here are some reasons for conversation from art teachers:
- “Try to talk about specific aspects of the play. “What are the colors in the picture?” Point to them. “Look at this red.” ‘Wow! This blue is bright! “Are there round pieces? Square? Triangular? “- Sarah Teitel , artist and art therapist from Toronto.
- “Recognize how hard (thorough, enthusiastic, long) they worked on their art.” – Jean Vant Hoole, the cunning parent
- “What would you call this work?” Titles can offer a new dimension to a work of art. In addition, the title encourages your child to reflect on the main idea or concept of their work. ” —Rachel Lynette, Minds in Bloom
- “Invite your child to tell you a story to expand their creativity. —Carolyn Mehlomakulu, Creativity in Therapy
- “Ask the children what they like about their job. This kind of conversation strengthens vocabulary and concepts and opens the door to conversation. ” —Toby Kibel Piatek, Inspiring Ideas