Wonderful Weaving

Working with the hands is an essential skill for developing fine motor skills, persistence and perseverance and brain function. While sorting through my basket of ribbon, I came across some that resembled netting. I grabbed the ribbon, and went searching for the yarn we had just used in another project. Paired together, the materials enticed the children ...

To play.

To explore.

To observe.

To create.

When the children pick up the materials to weave, they further develop creativity, dexterity and appreciation for aesthetics. 

The art of weaving also branches into other curriculum strands. The spatial sense that is exercised when stitching the yarn through the netting, is an important math skill.

It is often said that confidence is born of experience and understanding. When we gain insight into how objects and art are fashioned, I believe we connect with the items and materials we use. We have not lost sight of the fact that when interesting materials and opportunities are presented; and the children are drawn to them, they are empowered to confront a challenge. We are so proud of their creative responses.

Thank you for visiting the atelier.

Beautiful Blue

The strangest materials will sometimes inspire us to create random art. One day, when pulling the popsicle sticks from an old glue pot, one of those unexpected "aha moments" happened, and the children were excited for an opportunity ...

To play.

To explore.

To observe.

To create.

Glue pot leftovers, on cardstock.

Various shades of blue were set out, and there were lots of questions about what was expected. We answered with our usual, "What do you want to do?"  They painted, and noted the different shades as it was applied. 

Once dried, various shades of blue yarn, pencil crayons and oil pastels were left out to inspire creativity. They took the bait!

Fine motor skills were exercised as they wrapped the yarn around the popsicle sticks, and stretched the material across the work of art.

Voila! I hesitate to say that this is the final product. Once it is up on the wall, the children may have more ideas as to how they can embellish their creative piece titled, "Beautiful Blue".

Thanks for dropping by the atelier!