This year, I will be working on improving drawing skills in all grade levels. Learning to draw from observation has many benefits beyond the art world. Observational drawing helps students to observe and reflect upon what they see. Drawing from experience, and drawing from imagination are important for whole brain development. Drawing from experience teaches how to create visually, knowledge that is passive. Drawing from imagination develops creativity, an essential quality for high level problem solving and overall brain development.

Parents can help their student to become better at drawing by drawing together, or by instituting a small practice of daily drawing. Fifteen minutes a day will help your student to improve their drawing skills. They can draw something small from nature, or any small object that holds meaning, draw from an experience ( like visiting the zoo) or just draw somthing imaginary, like a new kind of car! Provide much encouragement, and some pencils, crayons and paper. Your student will learn valuable skills that will help with the rest of his/her school career and and ultimately, whatever career path they choose to take. For help with drawing ideas, please see the links on drawing on my homepage. You can also check out my pinterest "Drawing" page.