Gather near Santa Seth and Holiday Socks

This is the perfect time of year to gather by the chimney with loved ones. Perhaps your family has a wealth of traditions you look forward to this time of year. Maybe you are starting some new family traditions of your own.

Children are full of sugar and energy this time of year. Has that energy been put to good use making and decorating cookies? Taste-testers are never in short supply. Have they been helpful decorating your house and Christmas tree too? Remember it is the thought that counts (even if you redecorate a bit). However, there is something to be said about helping the kids relax and reflect as the holiday season progresses. So, we’ve provided a Christmas themed coloring page that is filled with holiday cheer!

Do you recognize Seth, The Seal of Approval, dressed as Santa Claus? Did you see the socks from our book, Where’s Its Pair?, disguised as Christmas stockings hung by the fire with care? Coloring helps quiet children outwardly while jump-starting an internal world of imagination. It is a great calming activity for kids and adults alike. So why wait? Download and print out our festive activity and gather around the ones you love. There is nothing wrong about coloring as a family. (Attachment is at the bottom of the post)

Remember this season is all about wonder and cheer. This year before opening presents, have each child guess what might be inside their presents. I’m certain their imaginative answers will give you a reason for a few jolly laughs. Laughing curbs stress and spending time with family matters.

Combining anticipation and imagination always leads to great results every time.  And we look forward to hearing from you in the new year.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our star pupils! We have great things planned for 2018.

Art and Child Development

Children not only need art, but they understand it much more than most adults. They still have the urge to create and imagine without limitations. Too many adults have given that up somewhere in their adolescence. One of our primary goals is to ensure there is a steady stream of creators, artists, and inventors entering the adult world. We cannot allow entire generations to sit back and rest on just consuming things because it is easier, faster, or less expensive. You need to connect with your children and show them the importance of creating things (both tangible and intangible).

Pablo Picasso Quote

Ideally, you’ll participate with them in the act of making, but at the very least don’t put roadblocks in the way of their creativity. I’m not saying anyone would do that intentionally, but the routines and stress of life can let many things get rushed or fall by the wayside. Be intentional about the art of creating with your children. And if you can, schedule some specific time for making something with your children nearby. You will inspire your children to create more just by being an example of someone that creates.