When children learn about artists the more well rounded and creative they become. Art is a fundamental component of early childhood. Through exposing children to art work it leads to seeing the beauty around them and in others. Learning about artists is a catalyst to empower children to be creative.
Before setting this invitation you can read anyone of these books about Claude Monet. The Magical Garden of Claude Monet, Linnea in Monet's Garden, Katie and the Water Lily Pond, Claude Monet, and A Picnic with Monet. Print images or create a slide show of the famous Japanese Bridge Painting to provoke the children's creations. Provide flat marbles, cups, craft sticks, water lilies, and a sensory bin filled with water. Next invite the children to create their own rendition of the paintings created by Monet.
Opportunities for hands-on play with different materials will allow children to learn and extend their knowledge and creative thinking skills. STEM preschool activities are designed to engage and stretch their thinking. Introducing the engineering and design process is a natural fit due to the fact that children already like to build and problem solve. This invitation is a perfect opportunity to change a simple building activity to challenge them to think and create in new ways and enhancing their interpretation and perception of Monet's painting. There was no wrong or right way to do this invitation and the possibilities are truly endless. By providing these open ended material the children are truly left to explore and build!
