For the past month I’ve really been wanting to write a new series that focuses on art for the toddler/preschool age. Since my youngest is seven, we have grown out of that stage. I remember those days “in the trenches” with such a mix of happiness and weariness. We did explore art, but I wish I had known about the world of blogs because I could have used some fresh ideas!
So here’s the funny thing that happened while I was working on this draft. I was asked by a blogger, whom I really admire, if I wanted to be part of a group of moms who write about art projects for their little kids. How amazing and serendipitous, right?! Of course I said yes!! They call themselves the Rockin’ Art Moms… and now I am one, too. Yee-haw! We have a collaborative Pinterest board that you MUST follow this instant. It is a place where you can find all of the best art projects for your little ones (and bigger ones, too).
The above collage is a mix of some really super creative sensory/play/process art ideas to do with your littlest artists. Included are some Rockin’ Art Mom ideas, but I will also continue to share more of their ideas with you on a monthly basis. I hope this new series will be helpful and inspiring!
From top left: Making sculptures with a wire basket from Stephanie at Two-daloo // Watercolor heart doilies from Jean at The Artful Parent // Scissor exercises from Jackie at Happy Hooligans // People playdough mats {free printable} from Kate at Picklebums // Nature shadow boxes from Deborah at Teach Preschool // Shaving cream bathtub paint from Trisha at momdot // Magazine art from guest blogger Deborah on Classic Play // Marbled milk paper from Ana at Babble Dabble Do // Recycled box community from Meri at Meri Cherry // Paint blot art from Jeanette at Artchoo // Citrus printing from Sarah at Lil Sugar // Marshmallow shooter from Laura at Come Together Kids
And now to introduce all of the Rockin’ Art Moms:
Ana from Babble Dabble Do
Meri from Meri Cherry (thank you for inviting me!!)
Jeanette from Artchoo and Tiny Rotten Peanuts
Melissa from Green Owl Art
Suja from Blog Me Mom
Kristen from Art History Mom
Gina from Willowday
Asia from Fun At Home With Kids
Stephanie from Two-daloo
Chelsey from Buggy and Buddy
Leslie from Pink Stripey Socks
I’m very excited to be able to learn from these 11 cool ladies, and to share their projects with you on a monthly basis. Rock on!!
xo, Bar
Jeanette Nyberg
Thanks for including me in this wonderful roundup of projects, and I’m so excited you came to join us!
Barbara Rucci
jeanette, i had a hard time choosing! i almost used the tape drawing on the rugs…i loved your son’s expression. ha! will save that one for next time. love your blog! xo bar
meri cherry
YAY YAY and YAY!!!! and ps that collage is gorgeous!!!
Barbara Rucci
thank you meri, you are my hero! perusing your website all day today…i showed my husband even. you are raising your girls in such a magical place. you really make me miss those days!! xo
Sandra
Hi Bar!
I just found you this week and love your blog! I just connected with you on Instagram and left you a message there too saying how much I’ve enjoyed all of the art inspiration your site has provided. I love this new series! I have a 2 year old and a new baby and am still in the “trenches” but love doing art projects with my toddler and am always looking for fun new ideas. Thanks for this! Looking forward to reading and following along on Pinterest!
S.
Barbara Rucci
you are the nicest, sandra. thank you so much for this comment, and the one on my instagram. you made my day! i’m so very happy that you appreciate what i work so hard to create. i’m looking forward to seeing more of your family art tagged with #makeit2014 on ig. thank you!! xo bar
Ana
Love this round-up Bar! Thanks for including us and I’m proud to be a Rockin’ Art Mom alongside so many talented ladies!
Barbara Rucci
thanks ana! there was lots to chose from, your blog is full of goodies! can’t wait to keep sharing 🙂 xo bar
Deborah
Thank you for including my shadow boxes. I have just found your blog tonight and LOVE it! Beautiful photos and wonderful ideas!
Barbara Rucci
oh wow, so glad you found me deborah!! i LOVE your blog and follow your pinterest boards. you have such unique and fun ideas. mutual admiration society 🙂 xo bar
Kristen Sadlier
Hi, I realize this is an old post, but I’m interested in the art project showing the kiddo studying and mirroring the image of a piece of toast (7th image). Which page should I visit for this activity if it still is up? Thanks!
Barbara Rucci
Hi Kristen, I’m afraid that blog no longer exists. This project can be done easily by cutting any magazine or catalog image in half and gluing it to a piece of drawing paper. Then set out and invite children to mirror what they see. I hope this helps! ~ Bar