Children LOVE being able to see their work on display for everyone to see! There are many times we as adults want to place their work at the highest point of the wall or at the top of the refrigerator so they don’t get ripped or torn up; however, when children are able to see their work at eye level, their stories are amazing to listen to!

Once, my daughter asked me if I loved her picture. My response was, “I love your picture and all the colors you used to make your dinosaur!” Her ear-to-ear smile turned to a sad face as she replied, “It’s not a dinosaur. It’s a princess.” Can you imagine how she felt? So often we make assumptions about what children have created and we display it so high that they can’t continue to tell us about their creativity because they simply can’t see it. We need to step back and ask open-ended questions so they can explain their works of art.

Open-Ended Questions to Ask Children:

• “What can you tell me about your picture/artwork?”
• “Why did you choose these colors?”
• “What is your favorite part of this picture?”
• “Where did you get your idea?”
• “Where would you like this work of art to go?”

Some fun ways to display children’s artwork may include:

• Empty frames with a clip or sticky tack to hold their works of art
• Clip boards
• Curtain rod with hooks
• Create or post art in a space where families can see their work as well (this doesn’t just have to be inside the room - think about the entryway, sign-in space, outdoors, etc.!)
• Allow children to choose where to display their work
• Take pictures and place in a photo album in the literacy area
• As you take down art & put up new, keep a portfolio for each child

Art does not just happen on paper alone!

If children have projects that can’t be displayed, take their picture and post it that way! Another thing to consider is having pictures of children and each gets their own spot for their work. Children love seeing pictures of themselves and family members; it can spark more conversations as well! 

Remember to ask families for resources - you never know what they’re willing to help out with!

“Art is a place for children to learn to trust their ideas, themselves and to explore what is possible.”

- MaryAnn F. Kohl

Tags: artwork , displays , exhibit , creativity , exploration

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