Art

[Marsha]

I reeaally need a plan. I cannot draw nor can my children
How do I get started?
What is the simplest way to learn?

[Sue G in PA]

If that is what you want to focus on, there are several available curriculums including Drawing W/ Children that teach the basics of drawing. It could be as simple as using the Draw, Write, Now books to do basic drawings and copywork to go with them. I don't remember the ages of your children, but even my oldest, dd11, (who can't draw to save her life!) likes these books.

Here is another fun plan: Usborne has an Art Treasury book that we like to use. It's basic layout is this: an artist profile on one page w/ one of his/her drawings/paintings/sculptures, etc. and then a project on the next where the kids (and you!) re-create something similar to that particular piece. My kids have really enjoyed it so far. We do take it a step further and study more about the artist (ala Charlotte Mason Artist Studies) and more of his/her work and then do the project or projects. Visit www.simplycharlottemason.com for some ideas on artist study. I'm sure others can recommend other curricula that is art-specific that teaches art more systematically if that is what you want.

[GreenKitty]

I don't know how old your children are but here are some links for drawing:
Art Graphica (http://www.artgraphica.net/free-art-lessons/free-art-lessons.htm), Art Factory (http://www.artyfactory.com/sitebody/gallery1.htm), How to Draw it (http://www.howtodrawit.com/), Draw your World (http://www.drawyourworld.com/), Fine Arts Emporium (http://www.fineartsemporium.com/main/begpaint.htm), Mark Kistler (http://www.draw3d.com/schoolofimagination/school.html) and Ed Emberley (http://www.edemberley.com/pages/main.aspx).
Also if you go to the Rainbow Resource site and look up Drawing there are several book options.

[hose]

Mark Kistler's Draw Squad is a big hit around here. Our library has the video series (otherwise it's about $300! ouch!). I am going to order his book to go with it. On his website there are 3 free lessons which I think are fabulous. You might want to google him and check it out. My children are ages 11 and 9. It's a great introductory drawing curriculum for those ages.

HTH.

[BusyBee]

I have enjoyed Drawing With Children. I do the lessons with my sons and they love it.

[one l michele]

there have been many discussions recently about this.