Open-Ended Art

As we get closer to the new school year, I am excited to say that this year I can fully immerse myself in the curriculum. This means implementing some fun new ideas and being there to help every step of the way. This year I would really like to implement more open-ended activities. This includes open ended art and open ended sensory and explorative play.

Why should we use open-ended art?

Open-ended art is an art activity where children are free to use their imagination as they explore a variety of materials. The focus is on the process of creating, rather than the product. There are no samples, no step-by-step instructions, and no right or wrong way to create something. The teacher’s role is to provide art materials and a space for using the materials. 

This means less crafts that the teacher directs. “Put the wheel here. Paint the pink here.” And more child lead art that can look like this: