Not one art project, but here you will find seven self portrait ideas for kids. Teach your kiddos to create their own self portrait for mixed media art for all ages. From a fun self portrait with LEGO or playdough to an abstract art project. Great for beginners too!
Art Activities For Kids
If you’re looking for art for kids, Happy Hooligans shares lots of fun art activities for all ages.
In the following pages, you’ll find art for toddlers, preschoolers and kindergarten aged kids and loads of creative art ideas for elementary students and tweens.
Be sure to check out this collection of our 25+ favourite art activities for preschoolers.
All of our kids’ art projects are fun and easy, and can be done with supplies that you have around the house. From creative art techniques like scrape painting, pour painting and silhouette projects to making your own art supplies like liquid watercolors, watercolor paint pucks, puffy paint and homemade glue, you’ll find tons of simple art ideas for kids to do at home, daycare, art camp, or in the classroom.
Scroll through the pages to below to see loads of art activities like:
- open-ended art
- paint recipes
- easy painting techniques
- nature art
- outdoor art
- messy art
- sensory art ideas
Click on any of the thumbnail images below to be taken to the instructions for the art project or activity.
Doodle Eggs – Easy Vibrant Easter Art that Kids of All Ages will Love
Yarn Rainbow Beginner Sewing Activity
Choose Hands-On Art Activities
What are some good art projects? We love the art activities below for a few good reasons!
Easy art projects provide the perfect opportunity to connect with your kiddos and are suitable for children of all ages. Good art activities can be as much fun with your three-year-old (working together) as with your 12-year-old (although a great independent project too)!
Doable art ideas use standard art supplies for inexpensive creative art on a budget!
The best art projects for kids are playful and engaging; these creative art activities below offer lots of learning opportunities from art techniques to art history!
We encourage everyone to use these art projects for kids as a springboard for their own creativity. Use what we have done for inspiration for their next masterpiece, or follow along step by step.
Why Do Art with Kids?
Kids are naturally curious. They observe, explore, and imitate, trying to figure out how things work and how to control themselves and their environments. This freedom of exploration helps kids form connections in their brains; it helps them learn—and it’s also fun!
Art allows kids to practice a wide range of skills that are useful not only for life but also for learning. These include the aesthetic, scientific, interpersonal, and practical interactions that can be discovered through the senses, intellect, and emotions.
Read on for the many benefits of art projects for kids from young kids to elementary students and beyond!
Making and appreciating art involves emotional and mental faculties!
Art, whether making it, learning about it, or simply looking at it – offers a wide range of essential experiences. In other words, it’s good for them!
Benefits of Doing Art With Kids
Creativity and Imagination: Art projects encourage children to explore their creativity and use their imagination. It allows them to express themselves in unique and original ways, fostering a sense of individuality.
Cognitive Development: Engaging in art helps improve cognitive skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making. It also enhances visual-spatial awareness and hand-eye coordination.
Emotional Expression: Art provides a safe and non-verbal outlet for children to express their emotions and feelings. It can help them cope with difficult emotions and process their experiences.
Self-Confidence: Completing art projects gives children a sense of accomplishment and boosts their self-esteem. They can take pride in their creations and feel more confident in their abilities.
Communication Skills: Art encourages children to communicate visually, which can be especially beneficial for those who struggle with verbal expression. It also aids in developing storytelling skills.
Motor Skills: Through art, children develop fine motor skills as they handle various art materials like pencils, brushes, and scissors. This can be particularly helpful for younger children in their physical development.
Social Skills: Art projects often involve collaboration and sharing of ideas. Working together on a creative task fosters teamwork and social interaction among children.
Cultural Awareness/Art Appreciation: Art allows children to learn about different cultures, traditions, and historical periods by exploring various artistic styles and techniques. Additionally, exploring art also can include famous artists past and present!
Stress Relief: Art can be therapeutic and relaxing for children. Engaging in creative activities can reduce stress and anxiety, promoting emotional well-being.
Enjoyment and Fun: Art projects are enjoyable and fun for most children. They offer a break from routine activities, allowing them to engage in something they genuinely like.
Free Printable Art Challenge
Our free art challenge printable features 7 easy but unique ideas. Before you get started, determine which supplies you already have and which ones you still need. Many art supplies can be used interchangeably. Find additional art challenges and drawing prompts here.
Tip: Do you have older kids who can help younger kids with these challenges? This is a great way for families to connect. These challenges also work well for early finishers or part of teacher sub plans!
