Beginners Drawing
Recommended for ages 5.5 (Age 5 minimum) through 6.5 years — 1 Hour Class
Students must be 5 years of age at the time class begins. Children who are slightly older frequently manage this class best. We recommend that Beginners take three trimesters of class before moving to the next level (Basic A). Children at this age require time and practice to retain what they learn in class. Moving Beginner students to a higher level too quickly is likely to create anxiety and frustration. Children should be comfortable and confident in their skills before moving to the Basic A level where projects move faster and students are asked to follow learning objectives more closely.
THE LEARNING OBJECTIVES for Beginners include developing various drawing skills, learning how to properly use materials, and follow general studio procedures. By teaching young children how to use and control materials properly and safely they develop habits that are carried forward. Projects at this level are designed to demonstrate to children how to organize the process of drawing and improve their results. We emphasize planning, sequencing, problem solving, and staying on task. This may all sound very methodical and business-like to an adult but it's all new to young children who quickly see dramatic changes in their drawings. And, we always offer opportunities and encouragement for children to express their personal creative insights as part of their artwork. The essence of "art," regardless of the artist's age, is a result of the skills and techniques they've mastered combined with their creativity and desire to express it.
BEGINNERS CLASSES ARE SIZE LIMITED to eight students. The studio environment is managed so children learn to accept challenges, solve problems and judge their own artwork without debilitating self-criticism. We teach students that drawing requires practice and errors are normal and expected. Not all their results will be satisfying, but they will learn and improve their skills with every project. Materials used are primarily markers, pastels and watercolor paint. Many children are ready to begin drawing with this kind of focus by the age of five, however no two children are alike and it's not possible to predict how any one child will respond. We do not accept registrations for children under the age of five without verbal confirmation from the ActonArt Program Director. Please call 978-266-1600 for more information. Placement of children in the appropriate class level is subject to Director's recommendation/approval.
