The twins need a dedicated art area. Every weekend they would ask to get the art supplies out of the bin and draw/paint/etc. on the dining room table. It occured to me that, if they had an area that was accessible and inviting...they might occupy themselves for a few minutes here and there. I really want to encourage artistic pursuits. We needed an area with lots of storage and it had to be budget-friendly (hear that Pottery Barn?) and able to grow with the twins. I settled on this white shelf, cut to fit at the store, and double brackets for strength, the brackets fit into tracks the DH screwed into the wall. As the twins grow, we will move the desk shelf up. The second shelf holds every washable item we own and the construction paper. We have giant stamps and BINGO-type daubers and markers, crayons, glue sticks and colored pencils.
The twins were incredulous when they realized that they could get their art supplies out any time WITHOUT ASKING!. As my son said when we told them "even markers?". I just realized that there was no reason to keep these things away from their reach. They are old enough to understand the rules and the occasional mess is easily wiped up. Most of the art supplies are courtesy of "grandma Mommy", my Mom, who ordered piles of supplies online. This seller has great prices and you can order once and pretty much have a life supply! It has been really fun to see them just spontaneously sit down, organize their supplies and start making art. Scissors and Play-Doh are available "upon request".
Three and a half is a great age. Summer, here we come!
I can't believe they're that old already! It is a magical age, and you look like you're all making the most of it!
Posted by: barbara | April 24, 2012 at 02:04 PM
I would also include styrofoam balls, feathers & pipe cleaners. I taught elementary art for 25 years :)
Posted by: Carol | April 26, 2012 at 08:19 AM
Howdy! What a nice looking blog you have! Did you build this site on your own?
Posted by: InfinityOfIdeas Blog | January 16, 2013 at 05:57 AM