For many children, their artistic gifts may not be apparent until opportunity or exposure provides a spark. That's why parents and caregivers must understand the many ways they can ignite sparks, nurture artistic talents, and provide opportunities for gifted children to explore the arts. In many communities, opportunities outside of school abound.…

The "Handbook of Research Methods in Early Childhood Education" brings together in one source research techniques that researchers can use to collect data for studies that contribute to the knowledge in early childhood education. To conduct valid and reliable studies, researchers need to be knowledgeable about numerous research…

Making and using masks can be a fun classroom project. Directions for creating many styles of three-dimensional masks are presented. Suggestions for using masks in the classroom are offered. (MT)

Presents examples of the craft of paper weaving on three types of paper looms. (SJL)

Presents instructions for a number of simple Christmas and Hanukkah decorations that children can make. (SJL)

Instructions are given for a beginning project in mosaic. (SJL)

Instructions, with illustrations, are provided for three exercises in clay sculpture: press mold, figure sculpture, and composite sculpture. (SJL)

The zoetrope, ancestor of the motion picture, is a spinning cylinder in which a strip of drawings take on movement. This article provides instructions for building this device and outlines an animation project for third- through seventh-graders. (SJL)

The computer is an exciting medium for art, especially for projects involving color and line, motivating even the most reluctant young artist. Input devices are described. The first four lessons are suggested and ways to display the art projects are covered. (MT)

Instructions are provided for creating three-dimensional designs by plaster coating honeycomb paper. (SJL)

Presents detailed instructions for creating and using natural fabric dyes extracted from plants, a project which the authors have used with first- through sixth-graders. (SJL)

How to make a kite. (SJL)

Describes the process of "canning"--applying textile pigment or dye to cloth by moving a pigment-filled can across the fabric to create a linear design. This printing process is described as low-cost, easy, and suitable for all age and artistic levels. (Author/SJL)

Instructions are provided for transfering photographic images onto fabric using Kwik-Print solution. This article is one of several in this issue on graphic arts projects. (SJL)

The author outlines the procedures for paper lithography and suggests it as a worthwhile project for all grade levels. This article is one of several in this issue on graphic arts projects. (SJL)