I wasn't planning on doing clay this week, but of course being open to an emergent curriculum means tossing my plan out the window if necessary. Last week I had many requests for working with clay again and I wanted to honor those requests and let the kids continue to explore clay in different ways. This time I offered them a red firing clay (as opposed to the white modeling clay), which is much softer and a little grainy. I first gave them some time to get to know this clay with familiar tools. After a bit of exploration, I brought out a variety of leaves and demonstrated how to make a leaf print (explaining that it is similar to making a print with paper and paint- which they are experts in!) The leaf printing was very exciting for about 5 minutes! Then the kids began to gather paint, glue and other materials to use with their clay. Eventually, the easels were visited as the kids moved around the studio. Some of the kids brought scissors to their clay work and learned how to cut the clay! After working with the clay, the older class decided to work with markers on the floor. When some of them began to draw faces, I offered them hand mirrors to see the details of their own faces like we did with our self-portraits. Sometimes when we wash up outside, the kids request the spray bottles... Some of the finished clay work
Thanks for stopping by! I’m an artist, entrepreneur, mother of 2, and early childhood educator. I began my career as a preschool teacher, deeply intrigued by the use of art in the preschools of Reggio Emilia, Italy. While working towards a Masters in education, I had the amazing opportunity to take part in a study tour of the preschools in Reggio Emilia. This experience has shaped who I am as a teacher, an artist, and business owner.
In January of 2010 I began offering toddler art classes in my back cottage. This wonderful experience lead to the creation of The Art Pantry, an online shop for children's art supplies and creative resource for parents and caregivers.
I am extremely passionate about what I do and love sharing it all with you.
Please say hello!
**megan@theartpantry.com**
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