An Art Area for Bree

Stella’s parents bought Bree an easel and rolls of paper from IKEA. Stella also selected a couple of picture books for her little friend. The easel, paper and art supplies are all stored in the laundry for now. Bree’s mum had decided that she would prefer her daughter to do art outdoors, under the covered area, just outside the kitchen and family room. This is where we do finger-painting and table washing these days. Until her mum finds a desirable cupboard for all the art supplies, finger-painting and drawing will be the only art activities on offer. The supplies for these activities are now neatly stored in an old basket. The intention is to give Bree a good start. They wanted her to learn to ‘care’ for her supplies like Stella (who also began learning to look after her things from around age 2 apparently). This does not mean total responsibility. They just wanted her to begin participating. I hope they will find a good size cupboard for everything to be stored properly. It is easier for the child to participate if everything has its own space and are stored logically.

This nanny is all for helping the child to become independent. I believe that toddlers and young children like to live and play in an organised and tidy area. I think that it even helps them to calm down. On top of that, toddlers and pre-schoolers like to pitch in. Many people misunderstand their intentions and label them as troublemakers but most of the time they really want to learn how things work in their environment. It is therefore highly beneficial to include them now while they are still interested. It will help to develop good habits. Their efforts may be sloppy (as compared with adult standards) but that will improve with practice. This sort of ‘work’ also gives them confidence in themselves. Step back and see how delighted they are when they have accomplished something rather complicating like cleaning one’s own little table.