Montessori Art Certification Online Course

You know visual art education is valuable, however you might not know where to even start—Traditional Montessori certification does not offer how to learn to create art curriculum or how children really learn visual arts.

• Do you dream of having organized art lessons throughout the school year?

• Do you want art projects to support your most important Great Lessons, or Cosmic Education?

• Do you want your students to have work that leads to innovative thinking and independance?

• No prior art knowlege is required to get trained!

• Do you want to do all this without any stress??

That’s why I created:

Get art certified to bring art literacy into the classroom in less than 7 weeks!

Choose from two online training options:

1. Self-paced video training (No certification included)

2. Video training, art certification, one-on-one coaching, and practicum

Montessori Art Certification Online Course video training center

7 Week Online Digital Course (3 year access!)

Who is This Program For

This training is for anyone who wants to learn how to teach children art lessons or take their art skills and learn how to apply them to teaching children in a Montessori setting.

All types of teachers

This course is designed for guides working with students in early childhood, ages 3-6 or 6-12. It’s a premium online training course that provides focused and up-to-date professional development. Teachers and parents with no Montessori certifications can also register. No prior art training is required.

Art Teaching Blueprint is comprehensive and broad in scope. It lays the foundation for understanding how children learn art, allowing you to start implementing art lessons into your classroom. Art Teaching Blueprint also comes with optional personal development certification and personal coaching.

Improve your teaching skills with a focused visual arts teaching curriculum guided by an expert with 30 years of experience in child art instruction.

International Art Teacher & Author Spramani Elaun

About Instructor:

Spramani Elaun is an author and art curriculum developer from San Diego California. She is a art teacher with a science art methodology. Her success is led by observations and real-life practice of how children cognitively and sensorially process art over thirty years. She is the founder of Nature of Art® Art school & Art supply company, Art Teaching Blueprint Montessori Certification Training.

Sparamani holds degrees in Graphic Design, Digital Media Design, Visual Communications, Print Media, and Fine Arts. She has published seven art education books and five sequential art curriculums for early childhood, lower, and upper elementary levels. She is also a regular exhibitor at the U.S. AMS annual conference and frequently travels internationally for in-service training.

Get Montessori Art Training

Many international Montessori schools and training centers offering Montessori certification have utilized my art in-service personal development training, art digital courses, art curriculums, and consultancy services. Some of our valued customers include The Montessori Accreditation Council on Teacher Education (M.I.T.E), The American Montessori Society (AMS), Association Montessori International (AMI), and MACTE.

Teaching art doesn’t have to be stressful (and you don’t have to be an artist to do it)!

I train you over 7 weeks with my proprietary Science Art Method®

Montessori Art Certification Online Course

This training curriculum not only meets but also exceeds the national and international core arts standards for children. The Art Teaching Blueprint covers the Elements and Principles of Design, the artistic process, and Spramani Elaun’s proprietary Science Art Method® and system of sequences.

Nature of Art® Science Art Method uses 3 key components :

Visual Perception (the visual cortex)
Cognation (Cognitive Neural Network Model)
Phases of Art Development (gross – Fine-motor development)

Here are common struggles Montessori teachers had before taking the Art Teaching Blueprint:

“Learning how to motivate kids to explore art and understanding how to work with different age groups.”
I learned how to simplify my art lessons, and that sculpting and building adds to the young artists 3-dimensional understanding. I have also learned that the process is just as or more important than the masterpiece. I have implemented reflection times into my classes as well, which helps me observe how they create and learn more about my students.“
Kaelee R. – Montessori Guide

Here’s what we’ll cover in 7 weeks:

Lecture 1: Identifying what a quality visual art education is for children (8 videos totallying 40 minutes)

Introduction to visual arts
International art standards
Art language
Teaching Areas of Focus
Artist Techniques
Art Materials
The Artistic Process
Spatial & Dynamic Art Understanding

Lecture 2: How children learn visual arts, Proprietary Science Art Method® (10 videos, totalling 54 minutes)

I share the important patterns I recognized in my 20+ years of teaching visual arts to children. This lecture is all about connecting the science to how kids use their senses to evolve into artists.

3 key components parts to learning visual arts:

Visual Perception
Cognative Art Processing
Gross to Fine-motor
Phases of Art Development

Lecture 3: How to teach children visual arts (11 videos totalling 45 minutes)

I explain what art skills and teaching methods help make children become successful artists. This includes my proprietary system of sequences to help nurture creative development.

Process-based
Choice-based
Copy-Mode
Creative-Mode
Art Teaching Practices

Lecture 4: Complete art supply & materials list, seasoned practical tips (7 videos totallying 56 minutes)

Here’s where we get practical! I share my list of the best art supplies to use for teaching each area of visual arts; I also give you the tips and suggested ideas to help you easily teach art for years to come.

Medium
Materials
Demonstrations
Shopping List
Art Supply Prompts

Lecture 5: Art environment (9 videos, totallying 40 minutes)

Set-up
Art Environment
Managing mess
Storage
Staging

Lecture 6: Staging a Montessori art shelf (10 videos, totallying 50 minutes)

A well-staged art shelf can be super powerful! You’ll learn how to set up your art supplies and art shelf to support on-going art literacy and active, engaged, self-learning.

Staging
Material Themes
Focused Group
Independent work
Guided Lessons
Presentation & Demonstration Tip

Lecture 7: Art lessons & planning formulas

This final lecture will help get you in the right mindset to start teaching your students with confidence! I break down how to teaching art lessons so that you can schedule a year’s worth of lessons with ease.

Art Lesson Framework
Art Lesson Development
Scheduling Formula
Art Observation
Making it Montessori
Art Albums
Art Assessment Guides

New trainings added this summer!

Lecture 8: Making it Montessori (1 video)

How to make visual art literacy integrate with the Montessori Pedagogy. Topics:

Sensitive periods
Sensory
Environment
Staging
Montessori Curriculum

Lecture 9: Art Observing (1 video)

Learn what we observe in visual art development, how to use the observation cycle to observe, take notes , assess, and modify art lessons.

READY TO REGISITER / PAYMENT DETAILS HERE!

Got a question? Email: Info@Spramani.com

Visit my websties:

www.Montessori-Art.com

www.EcoKidsArt.com

No part of this blog may be used or be reproduced in any manner whatsoever including reproducing, publishing, performing, and making any adaptions of the work – including translation into another foreign language without written permission except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews. Nature of Art® Publishing P.O. Box 443 Solana Beach, California 92075.

September 28, 2023September 30, 2023

Montessori – Using Visual Arts to Support Language Development

By Spramani Elaun

In today’s Montessori classrooms, students often miss out on opportunities to express their thoughts and emotions about artworks. However, your classroom can be an exceptional environment for empowering students to develop critical thinking skills and proficiency in the language of art. By encouraging students to engage in open discussions and reflective exercises, you can enhance their communication skills and foster a deeper understanding of art while also meeting art standards. Emphasizing the importance of self-expression and thoughtful analysis creates a nurturing space to support language development.

When we look at art, we usually focus on what we see. But it’s also important to talk about art with friends, family, and teachers. As art teachers, we can help students understand how different elements of art fit together. This means they can learn words to describe their own artwork, like colors and textures. For example, they might say, “I used light blue in the background of my picture and made wavy lines to show clouds.” By using these special art words, students can explain their choices and practice language development.

Montessori - Using Visual Arts to Support Language Development, Art Lessons For Teachers

Art language includes specialized vocabulary for discussing art, such as elements like colors, shapes, lines, and the emotions evoked by artworks. Teaching art language in the classroom provides students with a valuable tool for expressing their thoughts and ideas more effectively. Engaging students in discussions about art not only enhances their ability to communicate but also fosters their overall language development. Through the exploration and use of art terminology, students can expand their expressive capabilities, broaden their understanding of artistic concepts, and develop a deeper appreciation for the power of language in the realm of art.

Using the language of Visual Arts can also have a profound impact on brain development! When children create art, their brains are buzzing with neural activity. Not only have neuroscientists, science researchers, and art therapists recognized the correlation between early childhood art and brainpower, but my own two decades of studio-based observations have reaffirmed these findings. Through art, children have the opportunity to enhance their cognitive abilities and bolster their brain function. By encouraging and supporting their artistic endeavors, we can simultaneously nurture their intellectual growth and language development. Art truly has the power to shape young minds in remarkable ways!

How to Get Started Teaching Visual Art Language:

If you’re looking to enhance your art education skills, my book “Defining Visual Arts” is a must-have resource. This book is specifically designed to provide a solid foundation in art literacy. Inside its pages, you’ll discover valuable insights, including:

The true meaning of art literacy
How to align with art standards
The connection between artist language and teaching children
Suitable art projects for different age groups
Recommended art mediums for children
The intricacies of teaching artist techniques
The importance of spatial understanding in the visual arts
A comprehensive understanding of the artistic process

[Order the book online HERE]

September 26, 2023September 27, 2023

The Power of Anticipatory Sets: Energize Your Classroom with Exciting Art Lesson Starters

I’m excited to share a little secret with you about having an engaging art lesson opener. However, at times, we tend to overlook its significance, and that’s something we need to change.

As educators, it’s imperative that our lesson openers not only pique interest but also align with our students’ existing knowledge. If the opener fails to captivate or doesn’t resonate with the students, its impact dwindles. My art method is firmly grounded in this principle; I love connecting art lessons with what my students are already familiar with or studying in the classroom! In some educational approaches, anticipatory sets are used in a similar manner.

So, what exactly are Anticipatory Sets?

In simple terms, anticipatory sets function like a warm-up or introduction to prepare you for something exciting. Just like stretching before exercising or watching a movie trailer before the main film, anticipatory sets serve to prime your mind, ignite curiosity, and generate excitement about what’s in store for your learning journey. In the realm of education, anticipatory sets are activities or prompts that teachers employ at the start of a lesson to activate your prior knowledge, stimulate curiosity, and get you enthusiastic about what you’re going to learn. It’s like setting the stage for a fantastic learning experience!

Sadly, in some lessons, anticipatory sets are absence, which can lead to boredom or disengagement among students. Anticipatory sets effectively convey what students will be learning that day, which can fuel their engagement. We need to infuse creativity and engagement into our openers. For instance, we can kick things off with a short video highlighting a artist, delve into an intriguing news article, or foster interactive discussions. Technology, such as an appealing slideshow, can peek interest!

Now, let’s delve into the process of creating engaging art starters (Anticipatory Sets). Before crafting one, it’s a fantastic idea to gauge your students’ existing knowledge. You can accomplish this by asking them questions or conducting surveys. Simply inquire about their familiarity and interests related to the topic.

Furthermore, strive to establish a connection between the opener and your students’ lives. What’s currently capturing their interest or fascination? You can unearth ideas by exploring online resources or staying updated with the latest news.

Here’s where the fun begins – let your creativity soar! Think outside the box and devise unique ways to present your opener. When developing it, consider drawing comparisons between the new material you’re introducing and concepts your students are already acquainted with. This helps them forge connections and deepen their comprehension.

Here are some fun easy to use an anticipatory set to introduce an art project:

Artifacts and Props: Begin by gathering intriguing artifacts or props relevant to the upcoming art project. For instance, if your project involves clay sculpting, display small clay sculptures or pottery pieces in the classroom.

Mystery Box: Introduce a mystery box adorned with colorful wrapping paper, placing it at the center of the classroom. Share with the students that it holds a special surprise connected to their art project.

Sensory Exploration: Launch the anticipatory set by allowing students to explore the displayed artifacts and props. Encourage them to touch, smell, observe, and interact with these objects. Pose open-ended questions like, “What do you notice about these sculptures? How do they feel? What do they remind you of?”

Predictions and Discussion: Following the sensory exploration, facilitate a class discussion where students can share their observations and make predictions regarding the art project based on the artifacts and props. Encourage them to employ their imaginations and make educated guesses about the upcoming activity.

Unveiling the Surprise: This is my favorite!, unveil the mystery box to reveal the materials or tools required for the art project. Explain the connection between the artifacts and props and the project, detailing how students will have the opportunity to create their own artworks inspired by these items.

By using an anticipatory set, you’ve sparked curiosity, engaged their senses, and generated excitement for the forthcoming art project. In my art teaching method, I use inspiration to set up an art shelf, creating the same type of student curiosity. If you want to learn more about this topic, order my books and curriculum HERE.

I hope these suggestions and tips will inspire you to approach openers with creativity!

And remember, integrating art lessons with other academic subjects can create a comprehensive learning experience.

Warm regards,

Spramani

HOW TO STAGE A MONTESSORI ART SHELF TRAINING

August 6, 2023August 6, 2023

First year starting an art program For Montessori Children?

starting a montessori art program, how to start teaching art to childeren, picture of founder spramani elaun

I bet you’re excited and ready to start planning! There’s so many things you can start prepping for to make your teaching experience go smooth. These tips will help if you are new to teaching art, or even a couple years into it.

Here’s what you should be prepping:

Building lesson plans & art curriculum
Art Scheduling & time segments
Getting your art supply list together
Ordering art supplies
Planning art storage
How to assess student skill-sets
Art procedures & routines
Art Project Make & Take

Building lesson plans & art curriculum in all honesty, coming up with an art lesson just takes a bit of preparation and basic knowledge of what your students are capable of learning and understanding.

I know it can be challenging—stressful even—to try and come up with art lessons when you have no art experience.

It’s been the norm to think we need to be teaching kids the classical Masters along with advance Elements and Principles of Design—but that’s not the case!

Students struggle to learn those high-level, in-depth concepts because they need a foundation of simple art lessons first.

So start with the very basic art elements, there’s plenty more, but start here for the first few months of art lessons.

First year starting an art program For Montessori Children, making clay

LINE

SHAPE

COLOR

FORM

The Elements and Principles of Design teaches children how to communicate what they see in their artworks, as well as how to describe their process.

Want to learn more start by ordering these books for more specific knowledge:

art teaching books for montessori teachers, spramani elaun

The truth is you CAN present art lessons without being an artist!

Isn’t that great news!?

You don’t have to be an artist to teach art literacy and concepts. (But I do have an online course, Art Teaching Blueprint, that does train you in how to teach art if you’re interested!)

Art Scheduling & Time Segments

Trust me when I say I understand every teacher has a different schedule! Some may have 15 minutes to teach, and even have to see hundreds of children in one day. I’ve taught all these situations on an art cart, moving from one classroom to another.

So the most important thing is to ask yourself, what do you want to teach your students this year”?

What mediums and techniques are important to teach this year?

When you put some thought into this, you can plan lessons and time segments with purpose!

For children to experience meaningful art lessons it has to take time.

If you see students once or twice a month, but only have limited time, its still plenty of time, so don’t worry!

Plan out the sessions it will take to teach each new concepts.

Here’s an example of what I mean;

Collaging –The focus would be to teach how to cut, glue, and paste. And also learn how to arrange in space, learn balance, and composition ideas. This should take around 4 to 5 segments to teach.Time to introduce idea, explore mediums, have time to creat in a process-based way.

First year starting an art program For Montessori Children? where to start

How Long Should An Art Lesson Be?

My guide and rule for figuring this timeline out has to do with following The artistic process and the students’ cognitive processing, this is based on my science art method.

An art lesson has 3 main parts to it, you can time art lessons out by my formula:

1. Setting–up

2. Artistic Process (Creative discovery, planning, and constructing)

3. Clean- up and storage

Timing mostly depends on the age of your student. If you are working with early childhood – toddler students, then you will be the person doing all the setting–up and clean–up. So the time of the art lesson will be much shorter.

You might be teaching preschool ages and want them to learn setting- up and the clean-up process. So you will add in those times for 3-6 years.

Elementary ages will be more independent and most likely be in charge of their setting–up and clean–up, plus storing their own projects. But, if you are a teacher that is limited on time, you can do this part to move classes in and out quicker.

I talk a lot about this in my professional development workshops on how to manage art lessons with limited school schedules.

Example:

Toddlers 15 – 20 minutes
Preschool 3-6 age 20 – 40 minutes
Lower elementary grades 30 – 40 minutes
Upper elementary 1 hour

Getting your art supply list together

Start making your wish list. You can use a amazon wish list. You can start taking advantage of back to school sales. You can start planning for the first few months of school and only pick up quality art materials. One of the most costly supplies you will need is drawing and painting papers!

Now is the time to start keeping an eye for good deals. Grab your cell phone and create your shopping list. You want to have that it inncase you’re shopping and need to remember what’s on that list. But nows the time!

Ok, next week I’ll dive into the other topics:

Ordering art supplies
Planning art storage
How to assess student skill-sets
Art procedures
Art Project Make & Take

Spramani Elaun – International Art Teacher Trainer

July 8, 2023November 9, 2023

Professional Development in Montessori Visual Arts Education | 6 Video Trainings

Earn 7 hours of professional development in visual arts education.

Get proper art literacy training to set up your classroom for fall.

Catch up with videos this summer.

No more guessing on what you should be teaching!

There’s a lot of art advice out there that is not designed to teach YOU proper art literacy for children.

I’ve spent years designing curriculum and training courses to help Montessori guides effectively teach art lessons to children.

I have designed this summer art video bonus
to help you get on the right track!

When you purchase this 6-video set, you will also be invited to a special Q&A session with me to help you get all your questions answered and to demonstrate the right art materials to bring into your classroom.

This live session will be held in the middle of August (date TBA), giving you enough time to consume the videos.

BUY 6 VIDEO BUNDLE NOW for instant access!
These summer 6-video trainings are on sale for only 72 hours!

What Visual Arts Looks Like For Children & Why It’s Important

In this pre-recorded 20-minute training, Spramani explains the areas young children should learn in visual arts and why it is important to teach in the 21st century.

The Art You Should Teach First!
In this pre-recorded 1-hour training, Spramani explains what Montessori art guides should focus on teaching first. She describes the areas to focus on and gives examples of art lessons. She also explains what you should present and demonstrate to children who are just beginning to learn art. She shares a wealth of professional art teaching advice.

How to Theme Art & The Natural World
In this 3-part video series, 2 hr.
Spramani shares: -How to take your child outside and encourage them to observe like a scientist & artist.How to use art and Montessori subjects to inspire exploration of the natural world and expand their knowledge. Learn how art lessons can represent various aspects of Montessori topics in nature, such as seasons, soil layers, energy, rocks and minerals, fossils, landforms, water, flora, fauna, and the atmosphere.

How to Stage A Montessori Art Shelf
In this 1-hour pre-recorded video, Spramani shares her: – Proprietary staging system for Montessori classrooms – How to stage to meet the arts standards – What types of materials to stage – How to support group and independent work, and much more!

Positive Artful Ways To Talk To Your Students
Spramani shares her 30 years of experience in talking to students in a positive, supportive way, encouraging creative expression as an art facilitator. Spell and grammar check: She shares examples of how these conversations sound.

Watercolor Joy
In this 1-hour video, Spramani shows you which watercolor paints to use for teaching children. She provides you with all the tips on what to buy, how to set up, and how to prepare for watercolor process-based activities. Great if you are curious.

Art Sale – 72 Hours Only!

Buy Now

Get instant access to watch the videos you’ve been waiting for! With a generous 3-year viewing window, you’ll have plenty of time to dive into the pre-recorded live sessions hosted by renowned art teacher Spramani Elaun. Whether you prefer watching on your phone, tablet, or desktop, you can enjoy these videos anytime, anywhere. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your artistic skills and knowledge. Start your creative journey today!

BUY NOW | CLICK HERE

June 12, 2023June 12, 2023

PREPARING A MONTESSORI ART ENVIRONMENT AT HOME

Whether your child attends a Montessori school, or you are starting to homeschool using Montessori education, one area you should consider teaching is visual arts.

Art is an often-overlooked aspect of Montessori education today. Even traditional Montessori classrooms struggle with providing art literacy.

Teaching art lessons has a ton of benefits that go beyond beautiful art. There are some other important reasons to create an art space in your home and give art lessons regularly. For example, art:

Supports problem-solving skills
Develops gross- and fine-motor skills
Supports implicit memory
Increases spatial awareness
Helps children regulate stress

Setting up an art environment might seem overwhelming if you don’t know how to teach art.

Have you dreamed of your child creating beautiful artwork but have no idea where to get started? As a first step, I recommend deciding on a place for your Montessori homeschool art space environment.

The secret to a good art environment is creating a space for working, uninterrupted. Additionally, you will want a space that offers children the freedom to explore and express ideas. After all, if you give them a space to make art, they will create!

Before we go into my art space tips, here’s a little perspective: If you don’t have a shelf filled with books, you won’t raise readers. You won’t raise a writer if you don’t have pens, papers, or a dictionary handy. So, guess what? You won’t raise an artist when you don’t have an art space filled with art supplies!

PREPARING A MONTESSORI ART ENVIRONMENT AT HOME | Homeschooling

ART ENVIRONMENT FEATURES

As an art studio designer, art teacher, and homeschooler, I’ve had many opportunities to design different Montessori art spaces.

Here are the essential components I recommend for every Montessori home art environment include:

Table – All activities should take place on a flat surface.
Chair – Along with a sturdy table, children need a safe place to sit while working.
Floor covering – This saves your floors from spills!
Light source – For children to work with color, they need a good light source.
Storage – Art storage comes in many shapes and sizes, including baskets, jars, plastic bins, shelves, or an art closet.
Sink – The sink doesn’t need to be in the immediate art space, but it should be close and easily accessible. You might want to use a sink in a bathroom or kitchen; it’s needed to wash materials and hands.

WHERE SHOULD YOUR FAMILY’S ART SPACE BE?

Because an art space doesn’t need to be elaborate, you can set it up anywhere in your home. You can dedicate an entire room as an art space or choose a corner of your child’s bedroom, the family living room, the yard, the basement, or kitchen.

One of my dear homeschool-mom friends set up a simple desk for her children in her kitchen. I loved seeing what her daughter would create when I visited for tea!

My own children’s art spaces have transitioned throughout the years. They moved around to different spots in our home. Now, my daughter likes to draw and paint in her bedroom, alhough, when she was young, the kitchen table was where she liked to do art.

Before you unleash your little Picasso, be sure you and your child agree on the space where art will take place (the art environment). This is big! When I first started homeschooling, I was loose on this rule. Lots of messes spread around our home. Eventually, my children stained my nice couch with paint and markers. Soon after, I decided there was only one space where art making was allowed!

PLANNING A MONTESSORI HOMESCHOOL ART SPACE ENVIRONMENT

Art space features to consider:

Where will the art space location stay?
Where will your child access their own art supplies?
Where will out-of-reach art supplies be stored?
Where will unfinished artworks be kept?
Where will artworks dry?
Which space will display current creations (home gallery)
Which sink will you allow your child to use to wash out paint, palettes, messy glue, and hands?

Geometric carpet in spacious bright kid’s room with red bedding on the bed, toys on a shelf and black chair at a desk

DESIGNING AN ART SPACE FOR INDEPENDENCE

You can support your child’s independence in the way the art space is prepared ahead of time. When planning this space, be sure it aligns with their level of fine-motor abilities.

Arrange and prepare art materials that are easy for your child to reach but not for any toddler siblings to reach.

Create a space with freedom of movement in mind. For children to become independent, there must be plenty of space to create freely.

Plan to demonstrate how the materials should be set up and put away.

Also, plan to show your child how the mediums work and how to use them respectfully.

I know when I have prepared an art space for independence, children can flow in and out of creative moments without me having to facilitate each activity.

For example, if I create a space for children to watercolor, I store materials in a handy way for them to gather, set up, and create. Eventually, they learn to set up and clean up without my assistance. Yes, I’m around for questions and new technique demonstrations, but my students feel like the space is an open, creative studio for creation when everything is initially set up for independence.

ART MATERIALS AND SUPPLY STORAGE

Storage can get tricky, especially if your whole family is sharing a living space/workspace. Be sure you create a system to store art supplies children cannot access. Many art supplies can stain and be hazardous to younger siblings. It’s easy for little ones to grab paints and take them somewhere you don’t want stains. You can store smaller plastic bins in cabinets or larger bins in a garage.

I hope I have provided helpful tips and the information you need to set up your child’s athome art room space.

If you want to learn more check out my books HERE

May 25, 2023May 25, 2023

Why Is Art Important in Montessori Schools?

Children doing art in a Montessori school, early childhood clay

In the Montessori approach, art holds significant importance as it plays a crucial role in a child’s overall development. Here are some key points highlighting why art is important in Montessori schools.

Self-Expression : Art provides a medium for children to express themselves freely, exploring their thoughts, emotions, and ideas. It encourages them to tap into their own creative own unique artistic voice. Read more on creataive expression here.
Tactile & Sensorial : Art activities in the Montessori environment often involve hands-on experiences. This provides sensorial neural messages for cognitive wiring and memory. Read more on tactile sensory art here.
Fine Motor Development: Engaging in art activities builds fine-motor movement. They learn to control their hand movements, develop hand-eye coordination, and strengthen their manual dexterity. Read more on fine motor development here.
Concentration and Focus: Art tasks in Montessori require sustained attention and concentration. Children learn to get into flow stages of mind. Immersing themselves in the creative process, fostering their ability to concentrate on tasks. Watch my free 1 hr. video training on art flow and normalization here.
Observation Skills: Art activities encourage children to observe the natural world around them, paying attention to details, colors, shapes and space.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Engaging in art allows children to explore different solutions and make creative decisions. They learn to think critically, solve artistic problems, and make choices that reflect their artistic process.
Cultural Awareness and Appreciation: Through art, children have the opportunity to explore various artistic styles, techniques, and cultural arts. They develop an appreciation for diverse artistic traditions and gain insights into different cultures.
Emotional Development: Art serves as a means for children to express and process their emotions. It provides them with a safe outlet for self-expression and emotional release, fostering emotional intelligence and self-awareness. Learn more about emotional literacy and art journaling here.
Confidence and Self-Esteem: When children engage in art, they experience a sense of accomplishment. This boosts their self-esteem, self-confidence, and belief in their own abilities.
Integration of Learning: Art is integrated into the broader Montessori curriculum, connecting it with various subjects such as language, math, science, and cultural studies. This integration allows children to make connections between different areas of learning and fosters a holistic understanding of the natural world. Sign up to learn how to integrate art lessons with Montessori nature science lessons here.

Art Important in Montessori Schools

Montessori Art Lessons For Early Childhood

By recognizing the importance to why visual arts is important to Montessori schools. You can provide children with:

Self-expression

Insependence

Creativity

Skill sets

Sensory learning

Creativity

Holistic development

How to Start Brining Art Into Your Montessori Schools:

Introducing “Early Childhood Montessori Art Guide” Book

Visual Arts Teaching Guide for 13 Months – 6 Years Old

✅ Proper and Complete List of Art Materials

✅ Staging and Environment Set-up Guide

✅ Tips and Art Lesson Ideas

✅ Paperback & Digital

For the longest time, teachers of early childhood students have been told, “young kids can’t learn art.” And based on that misinformation, as well as out-of-date art teaching practices, you might be thinking that’s true too.

ORDER MONTESSORI ART GUIDE HERE

I’m here to tell you that’s not the case!

Toddlers and early childhood students CAN learn art!

It all comes down to HOW you teach them. After years of observing art, I’ve developed my very own teaching method that engages and excites young children; it introduces them to art in a way that makes sense to their little developing brains.

May 1, 2023May 1, 2023

10 Fun Big Bang Art To Share With Your Montessori Students

By Spramani Elaun

Fun Big Bang Art To Share With Your Montessori Students, spramani art album

As a Montessori teacher, you know it can be overwhelming to choose the best art activities for your students. That’s why I’m here with some guidance on which Montessori art activities for Big Bang lessons are most appropriate for your classroom.

Art activities related to the Big Bang are some of my favorites to teach. They allow children to explore their imaginations and get creative in a concrete, meaningful way. From drawing explosions to painting supernovas, students can visualize and understand such a big concept.

Integrating art with science helps kids express ideas creatively, stimulates their senses and provides tactile experiences. And when it comes to teaching the universe’s and the Big Bang, there is no shortage of art inspiration.

To get started, take a look at some of your books for visual inspiration. One of my favorites is “Born With a Bang: The Universe Tells Our Cosmic Story” by Jennifer Morgan. The illustrations are sure to inspire your students to create.

And for more ideas, download my top 5 Montessori Big Bang Art Activities. These activities can easily be adjusted to fit early childhood, lower elementary, or upper elementary classrooms. Click here to get started!

The Big Bang Theory is a fascinating science topic that Montessori teachers can incorporate into their art projects to make the learning experience interactive and fun. Below are ten art projects that Montessori teachers can use to teach elementary kids about the Big Bang Theory.

10 Fun Big Bang Art

1. Create a Cosmic Painting: Take your students on a journey through the universe with a cosmic painting activity. Discuss the Big Bang and the creation of the universe with your students, then have them create a painting depicting the birth of the universe.

2. Constellations: Give your students a chance to create their own constellations using paint or clay. Educate them on how the Big Bang gave birth to stars and how stars are the building blocks of constellations.

3. Paper Mache Planets: Introduce the concept of planets and solar systems by having your students make paper mache planets. You can use this opportunity to discuss the origins of planets and how they were formed following the Big Bang.

4. Galaxy in a Bottle: Encourage your students to learn about galaxies by creating a galaxy in a bottle. This can be a great way to explore the vastness of space and how galaxies form after the Big Bang.

5. Moon Phases Art: Discuss the moon phases and how they are caused by the changing position of the moon. Have your students create art that depicts the different phases of the moon using paint or chalk.

6. Starry Night Sky: Teach your students about stars by creating a starry night sky mural. This activity can help them learn about the different types of stars and how they are formed.

7. Cosmic Collage: Give your students an opportunity to create a cosmic collage by cutting out pictures of planets, stars, and galaxies from magazines and newspapers. Discuss the Big Bang and how all these celestial bodies came into existence.

8. Sun Catchers: Discuss the origins of our solar system’s star, the sun, and have your students create sun catchers using colorful tissue paper. This can be a great way to explore the different colors of the sun and how they are visible to us.

9. Universe Mobile: Make a universe mobile to showcase the Big Bang and the creation of our universe. Students can create planets, stars, and galaxies to hang from the mobile.

10. Astronaut Art: Discuss space travel and astronauts’ role in exploring space. Let your students create astronaut art that depicts them exploring the galaxies and space beyond, giving them a glimpse into the vast universe beyond our planet.

By incorporating these art projects into your Montessori lessons, your students can learn about the Big Bang Theory and explore the vastness of space in a fun and interactive way.

Montessori Art Activities | Big Bang Art Lessons

Order my Montessori Art Books & Curriculum HERE

April 28, 2023May 4, 2023

Exciting Lessons: Theme Art Activities with The Beautiful Natural World

By Spramani Elaun

Montessori Course: Theme Art & The Natural World |

As Montessori educators, you understand the immense benefits of exposing children to nature and fostering a sense of connection and responsibility towards the environment from a young age.

This influence can have a profound impact that lasts a lifetime. However, it can be challenging to know where to begin this journey, and lack resources. Or knowledge about art, which can hinder your ability to teach these invaluable lessons to your students.

Although the natural outdoor spaces available to us may vary greatly, ranging from parks, backyards, hiking trails to small farms and everything in between, what truly matters is taking the first step towards connecting with nature.

Fortunately, Spramani Elaun, a homeschooling pioneer and experienced Montessori art trainer with over 30 years of experience, can guide you on where to begin and how to do it. This is an ideal opportunity for both Montessori families and classroom teachers. Teaching both early childhood and elementary grades.

Get outdoors: Theme Art & The Natural World

LEARN MORE

For those who have long wished to impart the joys of art to their students but have felt held back by a lack of resources and expertise, this Monressori course offers the perfect solution. It provides guidance on teaching art to children, including ideas for projects that complement existing Montessori elementary lessons. Additionally, the course highlights the numerous health and academic benefits that nature can offer to young learners.

Enrollment for this course is currently available, and if you register before May 15th, you can take advantage of the special introductory rate of USD $65 + tax.

Read on to discover why Spramani is deeply committed to inspiring children to explore the outdoors and express themselves through art.

“My passion for sharing nature with children was sparked by my experiences of being outdoors engaging in sensorial tactile moments. It’s truly rewarding to witness children make connections to the natural world, with flowers and insects, and to see them engage in real learning through art projects. This type of hands-on learning is memorable! As a teacher, there’s nothing more satisfying than guiding children in drawing and crafting activities, knowing that they’re not only learning, but also deeply curious and excited about discovering our planet.

During the first half of my children’s homeschooling journey, we immersed ourselves in nature by going on hikes, gardening, planting flowers, collecting natural specimens and visiting various natural spaces. When I began teaching art classes in my home to my community, we took our drawing and painting activities outdoors!. My students thoroughly enjoyed these outdoor sessions and it sparked numerous engaging conversations about nature and biospheres. I’m eager to share my passion for integrating art and the natural world with you!”

Exciting Lessons: Theme Art Activities with The Beautiful Natural World, Montessori

We’ll explore various topics such as:

How to take your child outside and encourage them to observe like a scientist and artist.

How-to use art and Montessori subjects to inspire the natural world and expand their knowledge.

Learn how art lessons can represent various aspects of Montessori topics in nature, such as seasons, soil layers, energy, rocks and minerals, fossils, landforms, water, flora, fauna, and the atmosphere.

montessori art Exciting Lessons: Theme Art Activities with The Beautiful Natural World

What you receive:

3 videos to watch, hosted by Spramani

1 Guided Botany Drawing Lesson (PDF Download)

1 List of natural world study topics (PDF Download)

Nature Outdoor checklist (PDF Download)

1 Nature journal guide (PDF Download)

Spramani’s favorite nature book list (PDF Download)

Exciting Lessons: Theme Art Activities with The Beautiful Natural World, art teacher spramani elaun

This course will help you:

Make art connections with science topics to enhance interdisciplinary learning (Supporting Montessori Botany Topics)
Theme art with your existing curriculum topics for a more engaging and immersive experience
Overcome the fear of doing art by exploring different techniques and materials
Use art as a tool to reinforce concepts and promote creativity in the classroom.

Register Now: Montessori Course: Theme Art & The Natural World |

April 27, 2023April 27, 2023

Exploring the World Through Art: Creative Activities for 3-6 Year Old Montessori Students

Hello are you new to teaching your Montessori student about visual arts? In this blog I want to give you some general art information if this is totally new to you. I’m a Montessori Art Teacher and the author of several Montessori art guides.

So lets get started… Montessori education is focused on hands-on, experiential learning, and this approach extends to art education as well!

Art lessons for 3 to 6 Montessori students should be designed to engage their all their senses, promote creativity, self-expression, fine-motor movement and independence. To give you an idea of what art lesson activities might look like here are three types of lessons that are well-suited for Montessori students in this age range:

Sensory Art

Nature Art

Process Art

Sensory Art: Sensory art lessons are a great way to engage young children in the creative process. This type of art involves using materials such as clay and paint to support tactile experience. Sensory art projects allow children to explore different textures, colors, and shapes.

Nature Art: Montessori education emphasizes the importance of connecting with the natural world, so nature-based art projects are a great fit for Montessori students. Nature art can include activities such as making leaf rubbings, creating collages with natural materials like sticks and leaves. Or even painting on these types of natural materials.

Process Art: Process art is all about the creative process, rather than the end product. This type of art encourages children to experiment with different materials and techniques, and to focus on the experience of creating rather than the final result. Process art projects can include activities such as painting, collages, 3D sculptures and doodling.

Exploring the World Through Art: Creative Activities for 3-6 Year Old Montessori Students art supplies

Storytelling Art: Montessori education emphasizes the importance of storytelling, and this can be extended to art lessons as well. Storytelling is a wonderful way to connect children to art language through beautiful books. Sharing stories and pointing out the art elements helps children build a rich art language.

Storytelling Art: Montessori education emphasizes the importance of storytelling

So this is just a few examples of what visual arts lools like for 3 to 6 year old Montessori students. Get on my newsletter to start gettting free advise and offerings how to teach art. Sign-up HERE

So overall, art lessons for 3 to 6 year old Montessori students should be designed to engage their senses, promote creativity and self-expression, and develop fine motor skills. Sensory art, nature art, process art, and storytelling art are all great options for Montessori students to start with.

If you would like to learn more and get all my resources for teaching for 3-6 Year Old Montessori Students check links below and on the top menu. I have a great FREE video you can take to understand what visual arts should look like for Montessori student.

By Spramani Elaun – Montessori Art Trainer