When I teach Year 1 art classes, I notice that using everyday materials in fun ways gets the kids excited and really sparks their creativity. Here are some cool techniques I like to use:
We make collages using things from nature like leaves, twigs, and flowers. I take the kids on a short walk around the school to collect these items. This helps them connect with nature and learn about different textures and colors.
We use empty boxes, bottle caps, and cardboard tubes to create all sorts of things like robots or buildings! I encourage students to think creatively—it's amazing to see how they can turn these items into something new. This also teaches them about taking care of our planet.
I introduce the kids to weaving with strips of colored paper, old magazines, or even wrapping paper. It helps them develop their hand skills and lets them play around with different patterns and colors.
Sometimes, instead of using store-bought play dough, I make my own with simple ingredients like flour, salt, and water. This shows them how to create materials. They can mold anything they imagine, from animals to cool shapes.
We go on a "treasure hunt" in the classroom to find old or unused items. The kids love turning broken toys or scraps of fabric into amazing artwork by gluing and putting things together.
These techniques fit well with the Swedish curriculum, which encourages creativity and trying new things. Plus, the students learn to appreciate materials by seeing what they can become. It’s so rewarding to see how excited and proud they are of their creations!
When I teach Year 1 art classes, I notice that using everyday materials in fun ways gets the kids excited and really sparks their creativity. Here are some cool techniques I like to use:
We make collages using things from nature like leaves, twigs, and flowers. I take the kids on a short walk around the school to collect these items. This helps them connect with nature and learn about different textures and colors.
We use empty boxes, bottle caps, and cardboard tubes to create all sorts of things like robots or buildings! I encourage students to think creatively—it's amazing to see how they can turn these items into something new. This also teaches them about taking care of our planet.
I introduce the kids to weaving with strips of colored paper, old magazines, or even wrapping paper. It helps them develop their hand skills and lets them play around with different patterns and colors.
Sometimes, instead of using store-bought play dough, I make my own with simple ingredients like flour, salt, and water. This shows them how to create materials. They can mold anything they imagine, from animals to cool shapes.
We go on a "treasure hunt" in the classroom to find old or unused items. The kids love turning broken toys or scraps of fabric into amazing artwork by gluing and putting things together.
These techniques fit well with the Swedish curriculum, which encourages creativity and trying new things. Plus, the students learn to appreciate materials by seeing what they can become. It’s so rewarding to see how excited and proud they are of their creations!