Methods for Expanding Your Child's Creativity

All children have this natural want and need to create. They have the curiosity to explore and expand their creative horizons as well. Why not offer them all the mediums possible in an attempt to further expand their horizons and to enrich their minds all at once?

As a bit of an artist myself, I've always been quick to pick up on my son's interest in creative expression.

Crayons

These are an old stand by favorite for many kids and adults. The newer crayons made by some of the larger companies offer a whole new experience to our little artists. From glittery crayons to gel FX to silly scented crayons, these will always be an all time favorite art supply.

Oil Pastels

Oil pastels are not nearly as messy as the name would indicate. These are actually crayon like mediums, but they blend better. You can blend the colors for smooth shading and for a more artful effect. I guess they could be classed as 'crayons' for kids that want a little more from their art.

Colored Pencils

Another stand by favorite. These are for the child that might have outgrown crayons. I've found that the better brands are smoother for coloring. Some even come with erasers for those slips that we all tend to make.

Markers

Another staple for every child with a creative streak. These will never go out of style. They are also very easy on your budgets.

Paints

Painting can be a great way to express one's self. There's so many types of paints out there to achieve the looks you desire. For the younger children, watercolors would be best. Try to get the better brands, though, as they tend to have much more vibrant shades than the cheaper sets do.

For a semi older and experienced child, acrylics are a great choice. You can find these at any craft department for around a dollar a tube. They offer larger color options for children and a smoother texture with brighter, opaque colors. They also allow the child to experiment with mixing paint colors. (Which teaches your child some art basics: What colors you can make with mixing what colors.)

Canvas