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You are here: Home / Archives for Home Education / Homeschooling a Creative Child

Homeschooling a Creative Child

Understanding Why Your Creative Child is Lazy

Post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure statement.

February 6, 2019 | Sallie Borrink
5 Comments
View Full Post with Embedded ContentUnderstanding Why Your Creative Child is Lazy

Creativity is an often admired but frequently misunderstood trait. Most of the time it doesn’t matter if creative people are misunderstood. They simply go about their business and accept that not everyone is going to understand them. It might sting a bit, but they learn to live with it. But if you are parenting a highly-creative child, it’s important that you understand the way she (or he) is wired. I believe one aspect of creativity that many parents don’t fully understand is why their creative child is lazy.

To clarify, what do I mean by highly-creative child? I mean a child who lives in her creativity. Who doesn’t know how to not be creative. Yes, all children have the ability to be creative and learn creative skills. I’m not talking about that. I’m talking about the children who are born to excel in creative areas because they are naturally gifted and wired in this area.

Academics and Play Get a Pass

In our culture today, we are obsessed with seeing a finished product or measurable results on a daily or even hourly basis. Even homeschool moms who have attempted to deschool themselves can still feel that subtle pressure to make their child “do something” that proves they are properly educating her.

In reality, we view a lack of measurable activity with visible outcomes as laziness. We also tend to view a lack of academic activity we can somehow call “learning” as laziness. Even parents who fully believe that homeschooling is, in part, about freeing children to be more fully the individuals they were created to be will be stuck with this mindset.

Understanding Why Your Creative Child is Lazy

Young children do get a pass in one area. Most parents will say they want their child to play, especially when the child is young. We understand the importance of play for young children and their development. So most parents wouldn’t call play laziness because they see a purpose in it.

But when a child wants to do something that isn’t academic enough and she is considered “too old” to learn through play, parents rapidly start labeling the child as lazy or unmotivated. Academics are necessary and play is acceptable for a limited time. But if parents can’t easily fit their child’s activity into one of those two categories, it is immediately suspect.

Creative Kids Who Are Lazy

The problem is that creativity can look an awful lot like nothing is happening for long periods of time. So parents assume if it isn’t clearly play and it isn’t clearly book learning, then it must be laziness. The parents then tell their child to get up and “do something.”

But what if she is “doing something” valuable that the parent can’t see? What might this “laziness” look like?

  • Reading books such as graphic novels that people would call twaddle
  • Playing Minecraft for hours and hours on end even if you wondered about the value of it
  • Doodling page after page of “nothing”
  • Laying on the couch and reading for days on end
  • Sleeping more
  • Asking to watch the same television shows or movies over and over again
  • Constantly searching YouTube for videos related to creative (but non-academic) subjects
  • Watching You Tube videos of other people playing games or doing other creative activities
  • Reading Wikis about (insert “non-academic” creative activity here)
  • Talking endlessly about the topic she is currently completely obsessed with

The truth of the matter is that it probably isn’t laziness at all. Any child who is heavily engaged in any of the activities above is FAR from lazy. She is focused and feeding her creativity. It simply might not be obvious at the moment.

Stages of the Creative Process

There are generally four stages of creativity:

  • Preparation
  • Incubation
  • Illumination
  • Verification

This short PBS video provides a big picture look at the creative process. Although not specific to children, it does offer a helpful framework, especially if you are parenting a highly-creative child and you aren’t a highly-creative person yourself.

The incubation stage is where I think parents can easily lose patience with their creative child. How many times do we find ourselves telling kids to “do something” instead of whatever they are currently doing? They may be deeply engaged in the “something” they are doing, but if it doesn’t fit our expectation of what “something” should look like, we assume they are wasting time (another one of our cultural sins).

Even the preparation stage can look a bit like laziness if we don’t value the information they are taking in.

To know how comfortable you are with allowing your creative child the freedom to go through the stages of the creative process, ask yourself this question:

Could you let your creative child focus solely on activities such as I listed in the bullets above for three days and not get anxious about it or feel compelled to steer her (or him) in a more “important” direction?

For parents who have been called to raise a highly-creative child, it is important not just to give lip service to the existence of a creative process. It’s important to understand it and know how to support it.

Here are two articles to help you think through the best way to parent your highly-creative child.

  • Creative and Crushed: Recognizing and Helping Children Who Think Differently
  • Open Letter to Adults from a Highly Creative Child

My follow-up post is: Homeschooling a Creative Child for the Future

Category: Homeschooling a Creative ChildTag: Minecraft, Play, Twaddle5 Comments

100 Art Supplies For Creative Girls

Post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure statement.

November 1, 2018 | Sallie Borrink
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View Full Post with Embedded Content100 Art Supplies For Creative Girls

Because I’ve been blessed with a creative and artistically gifted daughter, I’ve learned a great deal about art supplies over the past several years. As a highly creative family, we’ve cycled through many different phases and interests. I thought I would share what Caroline, in particular, has enjoyed using. If you have a girl in your life who enjoys artistic endeavors, then this post about the best art supplies for creative girls is for you!

I’ve put together this list based on what has been particularly popular in our home. It includes everything from young girls to more serious art endeavors with lots in-between. I’ve grouped them according to how they might be used to make it easier.

Basic Art Supplies For Creative Girls

Let’s start with the basics. These are art supplies that most creative girls would need at some point. Most of these are used on a regular basis in our home and have been for many years.

Fiskars 196920-1001 Portable Scrapbooking Trimmer, 12 InchFiskars 196920-1001 Portable Scrapbooking Trimmer, 12 InchAmazonBasics Multipurpose Scissors - 3-PackAmazonBasics Multipurpose Scissors - 3-PackSchool Smart Paper Edger Scissors, 6-1/2 x 2-1/2 Inches, Assorted Colors, Set of 12School Smart Paper Edger Scissors, 6-1/2 x 2-1/2 Inches, Assorted Colors, Set of 12ccbetter Upgraded Mini Hot Melt Glue Gun with 30pcs Glue Sticks,Removable Anti-hot Cover Glue Gun Kit with Flexible Trigger for DIY Small Craft Projects & Sealing and Quick Daily Repairs 20-watt,Blueccbetter Upgraded Mini Hot Melt Glue Gun with 30pcs Glue Sticks,Removable Anti-hot Cover Glue Gun Kit with Flexible Trigger for DIY Small Craft Projects & Sealing and Quick Daily Repairs 20-watt,BlueScotch Magic Tape and Refillable Dispenser, Standard Width, Engineered for Repairing, 3/4 x 650 Inches, 6-Pack (6122)Scotch Magic Tape and Refillable Dispenser, Standard Width, Engineered for Repairing, 3/4 x 650 Inches, 6-Pack (6122)OfficePro Electric Pencil Sharpener - For School and Classroom, Helical Steel Blade Sharpens All Pencils Including Color, Auto-Stop Feature, Ultra-Portable - Batteries Included (Pencil Sharpener)OfficePro Electric Pencil Sharpener - For School and Classroom, Helical Steel Blade Sharpens All Pencils Including Color, Auto-Stop Feature, Ultra-Portable - Batteries Included (Pencil Sharpener)School Smart Electric Pencil Sharpener, 5-1/2 x 3-3/4 x 7-3/4 InchesSchool Smart Electric Pencil Sharpener, 5-1/2 x 3-3/4 x 7-3/4 InchesX-Acto ELMERS Designer Series Gripster Knife, Pink (X3252)X-Acto ELMERS Designer Series Gripster Knife, Pink (X3252)Cutting Mat & Craft Knife Set - Deluxe Package With Premium 12x18 Self Healing Cutting Mat Precision 7 Piece Craft Hobby Knife Set & 10 Replaceable Craft Blades Perfect for Arts and Crafts of All KindCutting Mat & Craft Knife Set - Deluxe Package With Premium 12x18 Self Healing Cutting Mat Precision 7 Piece Craft Hobby Knife Set & 10 Replaceable Craft Blades Perfect for Arts and Crafts of All Kind

Storage For Art Supplies

Deciding how to store all of the “stuff” is part of living in a creative home. We have used a variety of bins, drawers, cabinets, and such through the years. Depending how how many art supplies you have and what they are, some of these will be helpful.

ArtBin Store-In-Drawer Cabinet, 30 Art and Craft Supply Storage Drawers, 6830PCArtBin Store-In-Drawer Cabinet, 30 Art and Craft Supply Storage Drawers, 6830PCmDesign Plastic Portable Craft Storage Organizer Caddy Tote, Divided Basket Bin Handle Craft, Sewing, Art Supplies - Holds Paint Brushes, Colored Pencils, Stickers, Glue, Yarn - Small, ClearmDesign Plastic Portable Craft Storage Organizer Caddy Tote, Divided Basket Bin Handle Craft, Sewing, Art Supplies - Holds Paint Brushes, Colored Pencils, Stickers, Glue, Yarn - Small, ClearArts & Crafts Supply Center Complete with 20 Filled Drawers of Craft MaterialsArts & Crafts Supply Center Complete with 20 Filled Drawers of Craft MaterialsRevolving OrganizerRevolving OrganizerStudio Designs Wood Desk Carousel in Black 12166Studio Designs Wood Desk Carousel in Black 12166Akro-Mils 10144 D 20-Inch by 16-Inch by 6-1/2-Inch Hardware and Craft Cabinet, BlackAkro-Mils 10144 D 20-Inch by 16-Inch by 6-1/2-Inch Hardware and Craft Cabinet, BlackCreative Options 1363-83 Grab N' Go Rack System, Soft BlueCreative Options 1363-83 Grab N' Go Rack System, Soft BlueIRIS USA, Inc. Medium 10-Drawer Cart with Organizer Top, BlackIRIS USA, Inc. Medium 10-Drawer Cart with Organizer Top, Black

Paper Storage Containers

A neat place to store various kinds of paper is a must to keep it from getting messed up.

4-Shelf Craft Organizer Cube, White4-Shelf Craft Organizer Cube, WhiteDarice 2025-401 Organizer, 14-Inch, TealDarice 2025-401 Organizer, 14-Inch, TealBankers Box Decorative Eight Compartment Literature Sorter, Letter, Black/White Brocade (6171301)Bankers Box Decorative Eight Compartment Literature Sorter, Letter, Black/White Brocade (6171301)Art Bin Super Satchel Scrapbooking Storage Case RackArt Bin Super Satchel Scrapbooking Storage Case Rack

Melissa and Doug Easel For a Beginning Artist

Caroline received this set with all the bells and whistles for Christmas when she was tiny.  It was well-loved and enjoyed! The Melissa and Doug easel is sturdy and well worth the money.

Melissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Art Easel - Dry-Erase Board, Chalkboard, Paper RollerMelissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Art Easel - Dry-Erase Board, Chalkboard, Paper RollerMelissa & Doug Easel Accessory Set - Paint, Cups, Brushes, Chalk, Paper, Dry-Erase MarkerMelissa & Doug Easel Accessory Set - Paint, Cups, Brushes, Chalk, Paper, Dry-Erase MarkerMelissa & Doug Easel Paper Roll- 18Melissa & Doug Easel Paper Roll- 18Melissa & Doug Deluxe Easel and Accessory Set BundleMelissa & Doug Deluxe Easel and Accessory Set BundleMelissa & Doug Easel Accessory Set, Smock and Dry Erase MarkersMelissa & Doug Easel Accessory Set, Smock and Dry Erase MarkersMelissa & Doug Easel Pad Bundle 50 Sheets 2-PackMelissa & Doug Easel Pad Bundle 50 Sheets 2-PackMelissa & Doug Tabletop Easel Paper Roll (12 inches x 75 feet) - 2-PackMelissa & Doug Tabletop Easel Paper Roll (12 inches x 75 feet) - 2-Pack

Art Desks For Creative Spaces

Creative girls need a place to do their thing. If a young girl is truly invested in her artistic endeavors, I think it is a wonderful gift if you can give her a dedicated space for it. Caroline has a long desk in her room and also a large area in our unfinished basement where she can paint and make a bit more of a mess. If a girl’s gift is art, it should be supported just as much as if her gift is STEM or music or athletics. Art is not a nice “extra” if it is her calling.

South Shore Craft Table with Open and Closed Storage, Pure WhiteSouth Shore Craft Table with Open and Closed Storage, Pure WhiteSouth Shore Artwork Craft Table with Storage - Large Work Surface - Multiple Storage Spaces - Pure WhiteSouth Shore Artwork Craft Table with Storage - Large Work Surface - Multiple Storage Spaces - Pure WhiteAmeriwood Home London Hobby Desk, WhiteAmeriwood Home London Hobby Desk, WhiteSouth Shore Crea Craft Table on Wheels with Sliding Shelf, Storage Drawers and Scratchproof Surface, Pure WhiteSouth Shore Crea Craft Table on Wheels with Sliding Shelf, Storage Drawers and Scratchproof Surface, Pure White

Lighting For Crafting

The lights with a magnifying glass are especially nice for doing detailed clay work, but a desk light is a must for most artists.

Brightech- LightView Pro Flex: LED Magnifying Lamp - 2 in 1 Clamp & Base Lamp for Table, Desk & Easel - Ultra Bright Daylight Light. Great for Reading, Hobbies, Crafts, Workbench- WhiteBrightech- LightView Pro Flex: LED Magnifying Lamp - 2 in 1 Clamp & Base Lamp for Table, Desk & Easel - Ultra Bright Daylight Light. Great for Reading, Hobbies, Crafts, Workbench- WhiteTaoTronics LED Desk Lamp, Eye-caring Table Lamps, Dimmable Office Lamp with USB Charging Port, 5 Lighting Modes with 7 Brightness Levels, Touch Control, White, 12W, Philips EnabLED Licensing ProgramTaoTronics LED Desk Lamp, Eye-caring Table Lamps, Dimmable Office Lamp with USB Charging Port, 5 Lighting Modes with 7 Brightness Levels, Touch Control, White, 12W, Philips EnabLED Licensing Program

Art Supplies For Painting With Watercolors

Watercolors are a beautiful way to paint. These supplies provide a nice foundation to begin exploring this medium.

Artist's Loft Fundamentals Necessities Watercolor Pan Set 28 ColorArtist's Loft Fundamentals Necessities Watercolor Pan Set 28 ColorArtists Loft ZdbnZ Fundamentals Watercolor Pan Set, 36 Colors (2 Pack)Artists Loft ZdbnZ Fundamentals Watercolor Pan Set, 36 Colors (2 Pack)Artists Loft Necessities All-Purpose Brush SetArtists Loft Necessities All-Purpose Brush SetWatercolor Paper Pad 9”X12” Fold Over Bound, XL Series, 30 Sheets, With a Braidz 10 Wells Paint Tray Palette and a Thumb HoleWatercolor Paper Pad 9”X12” Fold Over Bound, XL Series, 30 Sheets, With a Braidz 10 Wells Paint Tray Palette and a Thumb HoleStrathmore 360-118 300 Series Watercolor Pad, Cold Press, 18Strathmore 360-118 300 Series Watercolor Pad, Cold Press, 18

Art Supplies For Painting With Acrylics

Caroline absolutely loves painting with acrylics. They allow for so much creativity and expression. The following supplies offer lots of ideas for girls who are excited about painting.

Cematron Acrylic Paint Set 24 Colors – Non Toxic Craft Paint Kit for Canvas Wood Fabric Nails and Rock Painting, Best for Professional Artists, Students or Hobbyist (Artist Grade)Cematron Acrylic Paint Set 24 Colors – Non Toxic Craft Paint Kit for Canvas Wood Fabric Nails and Rock Painting, Best for Professional Artists, Students or Hobbyist (Artist Grade)Colore Acrylic Paint Set - 24 ColorsColore Acrylic Paint Set - 24 ColorsApple Barrel Acrylic Paint Set, 18 Piece (2-Ounce), PROMOABI Assorted Colors IApple Barrel Acrylic Paint Set, 18 Piece (2-Ounce), PROMOABI Assorted Colors IBundle Includes 3 Items - Apple Barrel Acrylic Paint Set, 18 Piece (2-oz), PROMOABI Best Selling Colors & Loew-Cornell 245B Brush 25 Pack and Greenco Professional Quality Canvas Panel 8x10 in-12 PackBundle Includes 3 Items - Apple Barrel Acrylic Paint Set, 18 Piece (2-oz), PROMOABI Best Selling Colors & Loew-Cornell 245B Brush 25 Pack and Greenco Professional Quality Canvas Panel 8x10 in-12 PackCrayola Arts & Craft Brushes, Assorted 1 ea (Pack of 2)Crayola Arts & Craft Brushes, Assorted 1 ea (Pack of 2)Arteza Painting Canvas Panels Multi Pack, 5x7Arteza Painting Canvas Panels Multi Pack, 5x7Arteza 8Arteza 8Arteza Painting Canvas Panels, 5x7Arteza Painting Canvas Panels, 5x7Arteza 11Arteza 11Arteza 12x12Arteza 12x12Artlicious - Paint Tray Palettes with Thumb Hole - Best for Acrylic, Oil, Watercolor Paints & Paint Brushes (3 Pack)Artlicious - Paint Tray Palettes with Thumb Hole - Best for Acrylic, Oil, Watercolor Paints & Paint Brushes (3 Pack)Heartybay 10Pieces Round Pointed Tip Nylon Hair Brush Set With 2 Piece Paint Tray PaletteHeartybay 10Pieces Round Pointed Tip Nylon Hair Brush Set With 2 Piece Paint Tray PaletteArtlicious - Rectangular Paint Tray Palettes Cups - Best for Acrylic, Oil, Watercolor Paints & Paint Brushes (12 Pack)Artlicious - Rectangular Paint Tray Palettes Cups - Best for Acrylic, Oil, Watercolor Paints & Paint Brushes (12 Pack)

Wooden Craft Supplies For Painting With Acrylics

Painting on relatively inexpensive wood items is a great way for girls to practice their skills and do something special.

Colorations Wooden Trinket Boxes (Set of 12)Colorations Wooden Trinket Boxes (Set of 12)Unfinished Wood Nesting Boxes (Small + Large Nested)Unfinished Wood Nesting Boxes (Small + Large Nested)1-1/21-1/2Darice 9180-06 Unfinished Cigar Box, 8.375Darice 9180-06 Unfinished Cigar Box, 8.375Darice Unfinished Wood Purse Box, 7.25-Inch Party Supplies, 7.25Darice Unfinished Wood Purse Box, 7.25-Inch Party Supplies, 7.25Creative Hobbies Mini 4 Inch Tall Birdhouse, Set of 4 Styles, Unfinished Wood Ready to Paint or DecorateCreative Hobbies Mini 4 Inch Tall Birdhouse, Set of 4 Styles, Unfinished Wood Ready to Paint or DecorateDarice Wood Bird House 2 OpeningsDarice Wood Bird House 2 OpeningsHofumix Decorative Boxes Wooden Box Jewelry Box Vintage Wood Handmade Box Wooden Unfinished Storage Box with Lid,6.9x4.9x2.6inHofumix Decorative Boxes Wooden Box Jewelry Box Vintage Wood Handmade Box Wooden Unfinished Storage Box with Lid,6.9x4.9x2.6inWalnut Hollow Unfinished Wood Classic Box with Hinged Lid for Arts, Crafts, Hobbies and Home StorageWalnut Hollow Unfinished Wood Classic Box with Hinged Lid for Arts, Crafts, Hobbies and Home Storage

Art Supplies For Creating With Clay

Creating with clay involves attention to detail and patience. It’s an amazing craft!

Polyform Premo Clay Sampler Pack, Assorted Colors, 24-PackPolyform Premo Clay Sampler Pack, Assorted Colors, 24-PackSculpey III Oven Bake Clay Sampler 1oz, 30/pkgSculpey III Oven Bake Clay Sampler 1oz, 30/pkgEjiubas Sculpting Polymer Clay Tools 5 X 2 Way Dotting Tool Rubber Brushes Wipe Out Tools For DIY Nail Art & Art CraftEjiubas Sculpting Polymer Clay Tools 5 X 2 Way Dotting Tool Rubber Brushes Wipe Out Tools For DIY Nail Art & Art CraftCrayola; Model Magic; White Modeling Compound; Art Tools; 2 lb. Resealable Bucket; Perfect For Slime Supplies KitCrayola; Model Magic; White Modeling Compound; Art Tools; 2 lb. Resealable Bucket; Perfect For Slime Supplies KitCrayola 574415 Model Magic Modeling Compound, 8 oz each Blue/Red/White/Yellow, 2lbs.Crayola 574415 Model Magic Modeling Compound, 8 oz each Blue/Red/White/Yellow, 2lbs.X-Acto ELMERS Designer Series Gripster Knife, Pink (X3252)X-Acto ELMERS Designer Series Gripster Knife, Pink (X3252)

Art Supplies For Drawing With Pencils

For girls who are a bit more serious about drawing, these supplies cannot be beat.

Faber-Castell pencils, 2B, 2H, HB, 4B, 6B, B graphite art pencils set with eraser, Kneaded eraser, pencil Sharpener for sketch, drawing and sketchingFaber-Castell pencils, 2B, 2H, HB, 4B, 6B, B graphite art pencils set with eraser, Kneaded eraser, pencil Sharpener for sketch, drawing and sketchingPrismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, 72 PackPrismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, 72 PackSTAEDTLER Mars Plastic Eraser Pack Of 3 Plastic Mini, WhiteSTAEDTLER Mars Plastic Eraser Pack Of 3 Plastic Mini, WhiteStrathmore 300 Series Drawing Pad, Medium Surface, 9Strathmore 300 Series Drawing Pad, Medium Surface, 9Strathmore 400-3 STR-400-3 24 Sheet No.80 Drawing Pad, 8 by 10Strathmore 400-3 STR-400-3 24 Sheet No.80 Drawing Pad, 8 by 10

Art Supplies For Creating With Foam

Caroline went through a huge foam phase when she was constantly constructing three-dimensional objects out of foam. She put them together with either tape or craft glue. This is an amazing way for girls to develop their 3-D and visual-spatial skills.

Fibre Craft Foam-Sheets 5-1/2-Inch-by-8-1/2-Inch, 50-Pack, Rainbow ColorsFibre Craft Foam-Sheets 5-1/2-Inch-by-8-1/2-Inch, 50-Pack, Rainbow ColorsS&S Worldwide AX822 EVA Foam Sheet Assortment (Pack of 78)S&S Worldwide AX822 EVA Foam Sheet Assortment (Pack of 78)Darice 106-118 40/Pack Foam Sheets, 6 by 9-Inch, AssortedDarice 106-118 40/Pack Foam Sheets, 6 by 9-Inch, AssortedScotch Magic Tape and Refillable Dispenser, Standard Width, Engineered for Repairing, 3/4 x 650 Inches, 6-Pack (6122)Scotch Magic Tape and Refillable Dispenser, Standard Width, Engineered for Repairing, 3/4 x 650 Inches, 6-Pack (6122)Aleene's 36116 Original Tacky Glue 3 Pack, 8 OzAleene's 36116 Original Tacky Glue 3 Pack, 8 OzAmazonBasics Multipurpose Scissors - 3-PackAmazonBasics Multipurpose Scissors - 3-Pack

Art Supplies For Drawing With Chalk

Chalk is messy, but an important part of developing as an artist. Just spray the important things to minimize the mess afterwards!

Prismacolor 27049 Premier NuPastel Firm Pastel Color Sticks, 24-CountPrismacolor 27049 Premier NuPastel Firm Pastel Color Sticks, 24-CountPrismacolor 27051 Premier NuPastel Firm Pastel Color Sticks, Box of 48 Color SticksPrismacolor 27051 Premier NuPastel Firm Pastel Color Sticks, Box of 48 Color SticksStrathmore 300 Series Drawing Pad, 11Strathmore 300 Series Drawing Pad, 11Canson XL Series Mix Media Paper Pad, Heavyweight, Fine Texture, Heavy Sizing for Wet and Dry Media, Side Wire Bound, 98 Pound, 7 x 10 Inch, 60 SheetsCanson XL Series Mix Media Paper Pad, Heavyweight, Fine Texture, Heavy Sizing for Wet and Dry Media, Side Wire Bound, 98 Pound, 7 x 10 Inch, 60 SheetsKrylon K01306 Workable Fixatif Spray Clear, 11-Ounce AerosolKrylon K01306 Workable Fixatif Spray Clear, 11-Ounce AerosolGrumbacher 549 11-3/4-Ounce Final Fixative Matte Spray CanGrumbacher 549 11-3/4-Ounce Final Fixative Matte Spray Can

Art Supplies For Creating With Felt

Caroline doesn’t show any interest in sewing or fabric arts at this point. She did go through a felt stage though when she was constantly creating things with felt. It’s great for fine motor development, planning, visualizing a finished product, etc.

flic-flac 28pcs 12 x 8 inches (30cmx20cm) 1.4mm Thick Soft Felt Fabric Sheet Assorted Color Felt Pack DIY Craft Sewing Squares Nonwoven Patchworkflic-flac 28pcs 12 x 8 inches (30cmx20cm) 1.4mm Thick Soft Felt Fabric Sheet Assorted Color Felt Pack DIY Craft Sewing Squares Nonwoven Patchworkflic-flac 48PCS 8 x 12 inches (20 x 30cm) Assorted Color Felt Fabric Sheets Patchwork Sewing DIY Craft 1mm Thick … (20cm 30cm, 48pcs)flic-flac 48PCS 8 x 12 inches (20 x 30cm) Assorted Color Felt Fabric Sheets Patchwork Sewing DIY Craft 1mm Thick … (20cm 30cm, 48pcs)flic-flac 44PCS 8 x 12 inches (20 x 30cm) Assorted Color Felt Fabric Sheets Patchwork Sewing DIY Craft 1mm Thick … (20cm 30cm, 44pcs)flic-flac 44PCS 8 x 12 inches (20 x 30cm) Assorted Color Felt Fabric Sheets Patchwork Sewing DIY Craft 1mm Thick … (20cm 30cm, 44pcs)AmazonBasics Multipurpose Scissors - 3-PackAmazonBasics Multipurpose Scissors - 3-PackAleene's 36116 Original Tacky Glue 3 Pack, 8 OzAleene's 36116 Original Tacky Glue 3 Pack, 8 OzLion Brand Yarn 400-5-5002 Large-Eye Blunt Needles, Set of 6Lion Brand Yarn 400-5-5002 Large-Eye Blunt Needles, Set of 6Singer 264 Polyester Thread, Assorted Colors, 24 SpoolsSinger 264 Polyester Thread, Assorted Colors, 24 SpoolsCoats Dual Duty XP All Purpose Thread SpoolsCoats Dual Duty XP All Purpose Thread SpoolsFairfield PF20B Poly-Fil Premium Fibre Fill, 20-OunceFairfield PF20B Poly-Fil Premium Fibre Fill, 20-OunceFairfield Poly Fil Premium Fiber Fill, 32-OunceFairfield Poly Fil Premium Fiber Fill, 32-Ounce

Art Supplies For Creating With Sharpie Markers

I think every girl goes through a Sharpie stage. Sometimes they never leave it…

Sharpie 1949557 Color Burst Permanent Markers, Fine Point, Assorted Colors, 24-CountSharpie 1949557 Color Burst Permanent Markers, Fine Point, Assorted Colors, 24-CountSharpie Fine Electro Pop Marker, Fine Point, Assorted, 24/Pack (1927350), Package May VarySharpie Fine Electro Pop Marker, Fine Point, Assorted, 24/Pack (1927350), Package May VaryStrathmore 360-118 300 Series Watercolor Pad, Cold Press, 18Strathmore 360-118 300 Series Watercolor Pad, Cold Press, 18Sharpie Electro Pop Permanent Markers, Ultra Fine Point, Assorted Colors, 24 CountSharpie Electro Pop Permanent Markers, Ultra Fine Point, Assorted Colors, 24 Count

Professional Markers For Advanced Artistic Girls

When the inexpensive Crayola markers no longer do the job, prepare to spend quite a bit more. These markers are expensive, but necessary for artists as they advance in their skills. The quality of the tools make a huge difference in the quality of the final product.

Copic Premium Artist Markers - 72 color Set A - Intermediate LevelCopic Premium Artist Markers - 72 color Set A - Intermediate LevelCopic Classic Markers 36-Piece Basic SetCopic Classic Markers 36-Piece Basic SetCopic Markers 12-Piece Basic SetCopic Markers 12-Piece Basic SetCopic Ciao Markers Set - 36PK/BasicCopic Ciao Markers Set - 36PK/BasicCopic Marker 72-Piece Sketch Set, E (S72-E)Copic Marker 72-Piece Sketch Set, E (S72-E)Copic Marker SB12 12-Piece Sketch Basic SetCopic Marker SB12 12-Piece Sketch Basic SetKuretake Zig 24 Pack Brushables Dual Tip Brush Pens Color MarkerKuretake Zig 24 Pack Brushables Dual Tip Brush Pens Color Marker

Art Supplies For Beginning Artists

For girls just getting started, have a supply of markers and paper available all the time.

Crayola 588610 Washable SuperTips Markers, Assorted, 10/PkCrayola 588610 Washable SuperTips Markers, Assorted, 10/PkWashable Super Tips Markers with Silly Scents, Assorted, 20/Set, Sold as 20 EachWashable Super Tips Markers with Silly Scents, Assorted, 20/Set, Sold as 20 EachCrayola 588106 Washable Super Tips Markers, Assorted, 20/SetCrayola 588106 Washable Super Tips Markers, Assorted, 20/SetPacon PAC6555 Lightweight Construction Paper, 10 Assorted Colors, 9Pacon PAC6555 Lightweight Construction Paper, 10 Assorted Colors, 9Crayola Construction Paper Bulk, 10 Colors, Great for Crafts, 480 CountCrayola Construction Paper Bulk, 10 Colors, Great for Crafts, 480 CountPacon SunWorks Heavyweight Construction Paper 9-inches by 12-inches 500-count Assorted (CON01500)Pacon SunWorks Heavyweight Construction Paper 9-inches by 12-inches 500-count Assorted (CON01500)Pacon Creative Products Heavyweight Construction Paper, Value Mega Pack, 684 SheetsPacon Creative Products Heavyweight Construction Paper, Value Mega Pack, 684 Sheets

Art Sets For Young Artists

There are many sets that contain a bit of this and a bit of that. Most of these sets will simply give a child an opportunity to explore a particular medium. From that standpoint, they are helpful because a child can try something without a huge financial outlay. But be prepared that if the child finds something that they really enjoy, you’ll have to buy more of those particular supplies! LOL!

ALEX Art Colossal Art SetALEX Art Colossal Art SetCrayola Inspiration Art Case, Pink Portable Art Studio, 140 Art & Coloring Supplies Art Gift for Kids 4 & Up in Convenient Graphic Travel Case, Great for The Artist On-The-Go, Hours of Creative FunCrayola Inspiration Art Case, Pink Portable Art Studio, 140 Art & Coloring Supplies Art Gift for Kids 4 & Up in Convenient Graphic Travel Case, Great for The Artist On-The-Go, Hours of Creative FunDarice 68-Piece Art Set – Art Supplies for Drawing, Painting and More in a Plastic Case - Makes a Great Gift for Children and AdultsDarice 68-Piece Art Set – Art Supplies for Drawing, Painting and More in a Plastic Case - Makes a Great Gift for Children and AdultsALEX Art Portable Art SetALEX Art Portable Art SetRoyal & Langnickel Pink Art Beginner Artist Sketching and Drawing Wood Box SetRoyal & Langnickel Pink Art Beginner Artist Sketching and Drawing Wood Box SetCrayola Inspiration Art Case: 140 Pieces, Art Set, Gifts for Kids, Age 4, 5, 6Crayola Inspiration Art Case: 140 Pieces, Art Set, Gifts for Kids, Age 4, 5, 6Darice 120-Piece Deluxe Art Set – Art Supplies for Drawing, Painting and More in a Plastic Case - Makes a Great Gift for Children and AdultsDarice 120-Piece Deluxe Art Set – Art Supplies for Drawing, Painting and More in a Plastic Case - Makes a Great Gift for Children and AdultsDarice 80-Piece Deluxe Art Set – Art Supplies for Drawing, Painting and More in a Compact, Portable Case - Makes a Great Gift for Beginner and Serious ArtistsDarice 80-Piece Deluxe Art Set – Art Supplies for Drawing, Painting and More in a Compact, Portable Case - Makes a Great Gift for Beginner and Serious Artists

Best wishes to you and your artist!

Category: Homeschooling a Creative Child, Homeschooling Elementary School, Homeschooling Middle SchoolTag: Caroline's Art, Homeschool Organization & SuppliesBe The First To Comment

Why I Embraced “Twaddle” For My Creative, Right-Brained Child

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September 24, 2018 | Sallie Borrink
5 Comments
View Full Post with Embedded ContentWhy I Embraced “Twaddle” For My Creative, Right-Brained Child

The explosion of the Charlotte Mason phenomenon in homeschooling brought about the widespread use of the word “twaddle” when referring to less-than-desirable literature for children. There was (and continues to be) much discussion about what Charlotte Mason meant when she wrote about twaddle and how that translates into reading and homeschooling today.

The campaign against twaddle has been so continual and effective that some parents now live in mortal fear of ruining their child for life if they aren’t careful to keep things “twaddle free” in their home. Why? Because their child might develop a taste for books that cheapen their very existence. (Think I’m exaggerating? I’m not.)

What Is Twaddle?

One of the things that’s fascinating about the term “twaddle” is that it’s challenging to get someone to explain exactly what it is and which books are “acceptable” and which ones aren’t. For an example, see the many comments on Simply Charlotte Mason’s post What is Twaddle?

Whichever definition people would choose, I’m fairly confident that most people who eschew twaddle would agree that the proliferation of comic books and graphic novels is a travesty for children. Graphic novels are the epitome of twaddle in the eyes of most.

Except it’s not a travesty.

In fact, the widespread availability of graphic novels is a godsend for right-brained, creative kids.

Graphic Novels and Twaddle

I know because I was a teacher turned homeschooler who firmly believed in the importance of phonics and thought children should spend their time focusing on “quality” literature. Quality literature certainly did not include comic books or anything like graphic novels. I even created a list of 100 Classic Children’s Picture Books to use in my homeschooling endeavors because I believed in the importance of quality literature.

Then God apparently decided it would be interesting for everyone involved to give me a right-brained, creative daughter who hated phonics (because they made absolutely no sense to her) and whose reading really took off primarily starting with me leaving a pile of Calvin and Hobbes anthologies on the coffee table.

The Authoritative Calvin and Hobbes (A Calvin And Hobbes Treasury)The Authoritative Calvin and Hobbes (A Calvin And Hobbes Treasury)The Indispensable Calvin and Hobbes: A Calvin and Hobbes TreasuryThe Indispensable Calvin and Hobbes: A Calvin and Hobbes TreasuryThe Essential Calvin and Hobbes: a Calvin and Hobbes TreasuryThe Essential Calvin and Hobbes: a Calvin and Hobbes Treasury

And so I had to rethink everything I thought I believed about reading and literature and what’s important.

Reading Ffor the Right-Brained and Creative Child

If you have a right-brained child and/or a highly creative child, I invite you to do something that will probably take 15 minutes of your time. It is a short amount of time to invest in something that could be potentially life-changing in how you teach your child.

  • First, read through the comments on What is Twaddle? to get a feel for the mindset of “serious” homeschoolers about books and learning. And I’m NOT criticizing these moms. I truly believe they love their kids and want what is best for them. But there is so much there that conscientious homeschoolers internalize without even realizing it. (And with that internalization comes the potential for a lot of shame.)
  • Then, read Comic Books from The Right Side of Normal to get a completely different take on books.
  • Then, go back and read through the comments on What is Twaddle? again. Consider how many of those “obvious” and non-negotiable standards put forth by those moms completely fly in the face of what creative, right-brained kids needs.

What many parents view as “twaddle” may be exactly what their child needs. But if they have a bias against anything that remotely looks like it could be twaddle, they are actually making reading and learning MORE difficult for their child. Instead of filling their child’s mind with the “best” of literature so as to give her the “best” education possible, they are in many ways denying their child what would truly feed and grow her mind in the best way.

Food for thought for all the conscientious moms who want to make the best choices for their child, but might be missing out on some of the big picture components of what that child actually needs.

Books My Right-Brained, Creative Daughter Loved

I have no idea how many picture books we read between the time Caroline was six months and nine or ten years old. Hundreds. I can’t even begin to list here all that we read and enjoyed. I laugh at the suggestion that we should only read a few carefully selected books to our child. People who promote that obviously never had a child who craves variety and novelty.

Like her mother, Caroline’s very particular about the art in picture books. For example, Make Way for Ducklings may be a classic by many standards, but the pictures were boring for Caroline. So we read a lot of books with colorful and interesting illustrations. I perceived from early on they met a need in Caroline that I couldn’t fully explain, but that was obvious.

I’ve made a few lists of books that have worked well for us.

  • Which Children’s Bible is Best for Your Child?
  • A Month of Cozy Children’s Books
  • 100 Wholesome Books for Girls and Tweens

You can see all of my book posts here that include many other picture books. There are many more as well that I’m still assembling into book lists. But suffice it to say that we read a lot of books with colorful, rich illustrations.

Graphic Novels My Right-Brained, Creative Daughter Enjoys

Graphic novels and comic books are a favorite of right-brained and creative kids. As I said before, reading really took off with the introduction of a pile of Calvin and Hobbes anthologies. This was a number of years ago and she still reads them. She has them all in her room and kind of claimed them as her own. LOL!

Here is a sampling of some others she has enjoyed (in no particular order).

Zita the SpacegirlZita the SpacegirlThe Return of Zita the SpacegirlThe Return of Zita the SpacegirlLegends of Zita the SpacegirlLegends of Zita the Spacegirl

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic Volume 1My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic Volume 1My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic Volume 2My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic Volume 2My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic Volume 3My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic Volume 3

Babymouse #1: Queen of the World!Babymouse #1: Queen of the World!Babymouse #13: Cupcake TycoonBabymouse #13: Cupcake TycoonBabymouse #18: Happy Birthday, BabymouseBabymouse #18: Happy Birthday, Babymouse

Kristy's Great Idea: Full-Color Edition (The Baby-Sitters Club Graphix #1)Kristy's Great Idea: Full-Color Edition (The Baby-Sitters Club Graphix #1)The Truth About Stacey: Full-Color Edition (The Baby-Sitters Club Graphix #2)The Truth About Stacey: Full-Color Edition (The Baby-Sitters Club Graphix #2)Mary Anne Saves the Day: Full-Color Edition (The Baby-Sitters Club Graphix #3)Mary Anne Saves the Day: Full-Color Edition (The Baby-Sitters Club Graphix #3)

SistersSistersDramaDramaAwkward (Berrybrook Middle School)Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School)

The Complete Chi's Sweet Home, 1The Complete Chi's Sweet Home, 1The Complete Chi's Sweet Home, 2The Complete Chi's Sweet Home, 2The Complete Chi's Sweet Home, 4The Complete Chi's Sweet Home, 4

Happy reading with your creative, right-brained child as you discern what is best for your family!

Category: Homeschooling a Creative Child, Right Brained LearnersTag: Twaddle5 Comments
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