Outlines the patterns and processes of visual representation which occur during early childhood and suggests some differences that may be apparent in relation to the young gifted child. Stages of development are described and the use of children's drawings as indicators of giftedness is also outlined. (Author/CR)

Discusses the role of Montessori education in developing lifelong skills for creativity. Considers self-expression the key to recovering human authenticity and spirit. Urges teachers and parents to develop this inner self in themselves and their children as a barrier against contemporary materialism, hurried life, and alienation caused by…

Discusses the Reggio Emilia (Italy) approach to elementary education that uses the child's artwork as a guide to what the child knows, while the teacher acts as a facilitator. Describes a series of workshops that taught elementary educators in Des Moines (Iowa) how to implement this approach into their classrooms. (CMK)

Offers an art activity that provides a balance between structure and an opportunity for students to be creative. Explains that the students begin drawing pictures of a clown through five teacher-directed steps and then the teacher leaves the children with half- finished drawings allowing them to creatively finish them on their own. (CMK)

Focuses on a second grade art lesson (two 40-minute class periods) in which students use stencils, oil pastels, and watercolors to create an impressionistic landscape. Discusses how to create the stencils, using oaktags, and how to create the picture. (CMK)

Presents three art projects that can bring to life the study of ancient Egypt for elementary students. After researching Egypt's history and culture, students can create King Tut masks, make Cleopatra headdresses, and craft cartouche pendants. The article describes the materials needed and steps required to complete each project. (SM)

Describes an art lesson for second graders inspired by the loss of Princess Diana and Mother Theresa entitled "Princes, Princesses, Heroes and Heroines." Attempts to relate to the children's personal lives and focuses on people who, in the minds of the children, changed or improved the world. (CMK)

Describes an art lesson in which first grade students learned to reproduce the three-dimensional world on two-dimensional paper, creating a landscape through a telescopic perspective. Explains that students first learn about landscapes. Discusses the process of making telescopic drawings. (CMK)

Explores the use of the random-weave basketry technique, addressing the supplies and equipment needed, getting started on the random-weave form, two different projects (organic birdhouses and theme baskets), project evaluation, and additional ways to integrate random-weave basketry into the art curriculum. (CMK)

Describes a two-part unit for middle school students that focuses on gesture. Students (1) create puppets using oak tag and brass fasteners, (2) trace the gesturing puppets into a drawing, and (3) decorate the puppets they originally created. (CMK)

Provides historical background on the ancient Hohokam people. Provides an art activity in which fifth grade students create effigy vessels based on their study of the Hohokam. Describes the process. Explains that students develop clay modeling skills and an appreciation for Hohokam culture. (CMK)

Describes a four week artist-in-residence program called "Reflecticons: Trees of a City." Using handmade paper, the children of Kaukauna (Wisconsin) explored the heritage, development, and growth of their community from the 1700s to the present. (CMK)

Presents a project in which students used the modeling compound called Sculpey to create miniature creatures called "wee folk". States that the project students were required to learn two new techniques: (1) working in stages; and (2) using round wooden toothpicks as primary tools. (CMK)

Describes an art project where students used excelsior, shredded wood used for packing, to create animals. Explains that excelsior can be found at furniture and grocery stores. Discusses in detail the process of making the animals and includes learning objectives. (CMK)

Describes a second-grade art activity called "The Name Game" in which the students create letter people around the letters of their names. Helps teachers and students get acquainted at the beginning of a new year. Explains that students review old art concepts while simultaneously learning new ones. Provides directions, diagrams, and specifies…