Megan Schiller, from the Art Pantry, shares how to set up an art room for kids that builds creative confidence and independence for kids.
Updated April 2022
All kids are creative, right? But many of them lose confidence in their natural creative abilities at some point in their youth.
As a mom, former preschool teacher, and art teacher, I believe that all kids have the potential to grow up feeling confident in their creativity.
If young kids are given access to creative materials along with a little guidance, they can learn to use these artistic tools in their own unique way to support whatever passions and interests they may have. They can learn to independently use creative materials to become self-sufficient makers and innovative thinkers.
In my work, I help parents and teachers set up art rooms that invite kids to use the materials spontaneously, whenever inspiration strikes. A child might need to decompress from school or might suddenly decide to make a bed for a doll while playing with friends. Whatever the need may be, the key is for kids to become comfortable using their art supplies, independently, as an extension of their play.
Here are my top 5 tips on how to set up an art space that builds creative confidence and independence.
Art Room for Kids
1. Make It Easily Accessible
Help your kids gain creative independence by having some familiar materials always accessible. Kids often forget about things they can’t see.
If you keep supplies out in the open and easily accessible, then they will get used more often and will allow for spontaneous art making. If your kids have to ask permission every time they want to make something, it can stifle their creativity. Make sure to go over the rules with your kids and let them know you trust them (even if you’re not so sure!). Maybe they will surprise you as they gain a sense of autonomy and responsibility.
2. Mix It Up
It might sound strange, but a kids art space isn’t just for art. Think of it more as a workshop, where your kids can use their art materials to enhance other types of play.
Don’t be afraid to mix toys and art supplies together in the same space. Plastic toys are easy to clean if they happen to become covered in paint or glue, so I usually start with those.
Sometimes I include wooden blocks or play kitchen items to use with play-dough.
At our house we often keep dolls in our studio and my girls end up using the art supplies to make accessories for them. Art making becomes woven into their imaginative play, which can keep them engaged for long periods of time.
3. It’s All About The Containers
Take some time to find containers that fit your space well and help organize art supplies.
It will take some effort to find ones to suit your needs, but it will be well worth it! With this kind of organization, your kids can easily find the supplies they need and then just as easily put them away when they’re finished (with a little encouragement!). New shelf organizers, bins, and art caddies can be surprisingly expensive. If you’re on a tight budget, you can find great containers at second-hand shops and discount stores.
4. Let Kids Display Their Work
When setting up your kids art space, don’t forget to include areas for drying, storing, and displaying art that your children can access themselves.
We use a small shoe rack on a low shelf for drying art and a large tray for storing finished art when dry. When it fills up, we go through the artwork together and save our favorites. One of my favorite ways to display art is to hang a strand of twine on the wall and use clothespins to clip the art to the twine.
Displaying children’s art shows them that their work is valued and helps build confidence. It also acts as a reminder of how they are growing and learning new skills. Try to find a display area at your children’s eye level so they can spontaneously showcase their work on their own.
5. Keep Your Kids Engaged With Invitations To Create
Even with a well stocked art room, kids can find themselves at a loss for what to do.
Try setting out Invitations To Create if kids seem “stuck”. That might be a decline in excitement or solely using the same art supplies. It’s best to set this up when your kids aren’t around. Choose a few neglected materials and display them on the table in a simple, inviting way. Then see what happens when they come across this alluring prompt.
I like to set something up at night when my kids are asleep to discover it in the morning. They are curious and excited that I took the time to arrange these items in a thoughtful way. They immediately sit down and start exploring the materials. This often leads them to gather more items from the shelf. This is a great way to jump start a creative session with a fresh perspective.
Need help setting up your own kids art room?
I’m dedicated to helping more kids have access to creative tools and materials. So if you want help setting up an creative space in your home, I’m here for you!
- My online course, Art Pantry Design Camp, will guide you through the process of setting up an organized and inviting space for your kids (no matter your budget or the size of your space!).
Design Camp is a 5 week course with step-by-step instructions, clickable product lists, videos, group accountability, inspiration, and support. I guide you through the process and answer every question that comes up for you!
And for the month of September, I’m offering all Artful Parent followers 20% off my Design Camp course and eguides. Just use code ArtfulParent at checkout.
- I also have plenty of free resources and inspiration on The Art Pantry site. I can help you set up an art space and encourage creative exploration.
- Check out my eguide with step-by-step instructions on setting up your art space.
More Kids Art Room Resources
- Why Having An Art Space Isn’t Just About Art
- 6 Ideas for an Art Room
- Create a Kids Art Room that Gets Used!
- How to Set Up an Art Cart
- The 25 Best Kids Art Supplies
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