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Art Activities For Grace & Courtesy | Montessori

Art Activities For Grace & Courtesy | Montessori, girl drawing thank you cards

One of the aspects I love about Montessori pedagogy is the emphasis on teaching students Grace & Courtesy, which aligns perfectly with art activities like Thanksgiving, and National Giving Day. The main focus of grace and courtesy is to nurture the development of social skills and manners in children, aiming to instill respect, kindness, and consideration for others. So for that reason I want to share some of these ideas and art activities that follow these important lessons.

Types of grace and courtesy

Respect is important for demonstrating how to treat classmates, teachers, and nature with kindness. Like using polite words, practicing active listening, and acknowledging others’ emotions, children learn valuable interpersonal skills.

Moving on, Learning Practical Skills is another essential lesson that helps students with the ability to greet others, introduce themselves, seek help when needed. And even navigate social interactions confidently. Additionally, Conflict Resolution teaches effective methods for peacefully resolving disagreements. By promoting communication, fostering attentive listening, and seeking mutually agreeable solutions, students develop valuable conflict resolution skills.

Another fantastic grace and courtesy lesson centers on Empathy and Compassion, aiming to foster these qualities by helping students understand and value the emotions and viewpoints of others. Moreover, additional lessons address Independence and Responsibility, guiding children on caring for their surroundings. Additionally, maintaining cleanliness, and actively participating in the classroom community.

Using Art Activities

You can use simple art activities to teach other important lessons like like Cultural Awareness. Lessons on cultural diversity and global awareness, fostering appreciation and respect for differences. And politeness and Good MannersTeaching basic etiquette, such as saying “please” and “thank you,” waiting turns, and expressing gratitude for a positive social environment.

Another fantastic grace and courtesy lesson centers on Empathy and Compassion. Moreover, students understand the value of emotions and viewpoints of others. Finally, additional lessons address Independence and Responsibility, guiding children on caring for their surroundings, maintaining cleanliness, and actively participating in the classroom community’s welfare.

Connect art with grace and courtesy

So, start with simple crafts to support these ideas. You can create arts and crafts using basic materials like crayons, paper, and colored pencils. These easy art projects can be wonderful gifts for various recipients such as veterans clubs, senior centers, children’s hospitals, schools, neighbors, family, or classrooms. The focus is on crafting thoughtful gifts. Many of these projects require readily available materials.

I have curated resources to help in teaching these art concepts, including links to external resources on YouTube and other blogs apart from my own. When using YouTube, remember to skip past any ads to get to the content directly.

Blog Montessori Art Mandala Activity For Stress by Spramani
Reading the book “The Hugging Tree: A Story About Resilience” offers a great chance to inspire individual artistic expression using color pencils or watercolor paint. Start by leading your classroom in meaningful conversations about nature, trees, and botany. Once the story has been shared with the students, initiate a dialogue about the art depicted in the book. Encourage them to then create their own tree series or artwork inspired by the narrative. This allows them to convey their emotions and interpretations through drawings and paintings. Furthermore, students can enhance both their artistic and literary skills by crafting their poetry or even composing a book to complement their illustrations.

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Benefits of Clay Play | Montessori Arts and Crafts

Montessori | Benefits of Clay Play, early childhood 3-6 years. Montessori Art and craft | Benefits of Clay Play

Montessori Clay Play has been found to have positive effects on emotional well-being. Playing with clay can help children regulate stress levels. Playing with clay provides a highly tactile and sensory experience. As children squeeze, press, and manipulate the clay, they are actively engaging their senses. Sending valuable sensory information to their brain.

However, the benefits of clay play extend far beyond the realm of sensory development. In fact, there are numerous cognitive advantages associated with this activity.  Montessori education highlights the importance of hands-on learning. Clay play aligns perfectly with the Montessori philosophy. In my early childhood art guide, I discuss this topic and provide more insights into clay play for emotional health. You can learn more by reading about the benefits of clay play in my early childhood book.

Montessori arts and crafts| Benefits of Clay Play, student playing clay tools

The important thing to understand about clay play is that it should be a process-based activity, providing children with ample time to freely play and explore clay. There are various ways to engage children in exploring clay.

Including the use of simple tools such as natural elements, beads, seeds, rolling pins, and cookie cutters. Emphasizing the play aspect of clay play is crucial. Allowing children to take the lead in their learning and discoveries. By letting the child guide the fun, experiments, and creations, you can enhance their clay experience.

Montessori Art and Craft | Benefits of Clay Play, little girl making clay sculptures, clay play session at school
Montessori Art and Craft | Benefits of Clay Play

When to start clay lessons

Once children have had ample opportunities for clay play and have reached the age of 4 or 5. You can begin introducing clay modeling skill sets. This includes teaching them forms, attaching pieces, cutting, and carving. If you would like to learn more about my clay curriculum you can view the Clay Modeling Curriculum HERE. Order Clay Play Tools HERE

Clay Play Classes in San Diego with Spramani Elaun – Nature of Art® School
Clay Play Classes in San Diego with Spramani Elaun – Nature of Art® School

Where To Start Clay Play

Unsure of where to begin with clay play? Perhaps you’ve struggled with determining the desired outcome of art activity? Allow me to shed some light on the importance of early childhood clay play sessions.

In fact, I refer to this approach as “Clay Play.” Engaging in type of play offers numerous benefits for a child’s overall development. When it comes to clay play, this process-based exploratory approach should always come first! Clay play should happen before getting into foundational clay modeling lessons.

Montessori Art and Craft | Benefits of Clay Play book
Montessori Art and Craft | Benefits of Clay Play

I recommend incorporating clay play for young children in early childhood education. Montessori schools and daycare centers can introduce clay modeling stations into their classrooms to provide children with the opportunity to explore.

Plus support creative and cognitive skills. To learn more about setting up clay modeling environments, please refer to this comprehensive guide Monessori Early Childhood Art Guide.

Montessori Clay Play

Clay comes in various forms, ranging from very messy to less messy options. Additionally, clays can be homemade. Earth clay, in particular, is a wonderful material to introduce to children, similar to making mud pies.

If you’re interested in setting up earth pottery clay play stations, I recommend checking out this book. It contains numerous photos and examples illustrating how to arrange clay play. How to choose suitable clay play materials for children aged 3-6 years old.

Preschool Arts & Crafts Curriculum
Montessori clay modeling curriculum for school art lessons, Montessori Art and Craft | Benefits of Clay Play

All rights reserved © 2025, Nature of Art®

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.

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Montessori Art Certification Online Course

Montessori Art Certification Online Course, logo and company

You know visual art education is valuable, however you might not know where to even start. Traditional Montessori certification does not offer how-to create art curriculum or how children really learn visual arts cognitively. Nature of Art® the Science Art Method@ offers Montessori Art Certification with online courses and live professional development internationally.

  • Do you dream of having organized art lessons throughout the school year?
  • Do you want art projects to support your most important Great Lessons, within the Cosmic Education?
  • Do you want your students to have work that leads to innovative thinking and independence?
  • No prior art knowledge is required to get trained!
  • Do you want to do all this without any stress??

Montessori Options:

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.

Montessori professional development

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.

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

Florida montessori founation

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.

Spramani holds degrees in Graphic Design, Digital Media Design, Visual Communications, Print Media, and Fine Arts. She has published several art education books and five sequential art curriculums for early childhood, lower, and upper elementary levels. 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 our art in-service personal development training, online course, 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).

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®“

“When you complete the Art Teaching Blueprint, you will have the confidence to start teaching and creating Montessori art curriculum for your school.”

Spramani Elaun

Montessori Art Certification Online Course

This training meets 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 her carefully crafted teaching 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)

Common Montessori struggles

“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, total 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
how to teach children visual arts online course, spramani elaun

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
get Montessori art trained

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

Here’s where we get practical! You will learn about the best art supplies to use for teaching each area of visual arts.

  • Medium
  • Materials
  • Demonstrations
  • Shopping List
  • Art Supply Prompts
Montessori environment, art set up

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

  • Set-up
  • Art Environment
  • Managing mess
  • Storage
  • Staging
art teaching blueprint art training for teachers
Staging a Montessori art shelf

Lecture 6: Staging a Montessori art shelf (10 videos, total 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!

  • 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 REGISTER / PAYMENT DETAILS HERE!

Got a question? Email: Info@Spramani.com

Visit my websties:

www.Montessori-Art.com

www.EcoKidsArt.com

All rights reserved © 2025, Nature of Art®

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.

Nature of Art® Is A Registered Company. All Rights Reserved © 2023

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Using Visual Arts to Support Critical Thinking

Montessori students using critical thinking skills to clay model

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.

Critical thinking with art elements

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.

Visual Arts and Brain Development

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!

art teaching books to support Using Visual Arts through Critical Thinking

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]

All rights reserved © 2025, Nature of Art®

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.

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The Power of Anticipatory Sets: Energize Your Classroom with Art

The Power of Anticipatory Sets: Energize Your Classroom with Art

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 I’m excited to dive into the power of anticipatory sets and how they can energize your classroom.

The Power of Anticipatory Sets: Energize Your Classroom with Art

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!

Engaging Art In The Classroom

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. 

The Power of Anticipatory Sets: Energize Your Classroom with Art, samples to draw

Easy Anticipatory Ideas

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

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

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

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

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

arts and craft book by Spramani Elaun

Spramani’s Books

Teach children visual arts

Art Book Shop

Curriculum For Children

Get step-by-step art curriculum to teach visual arts. Check out our 4 art curriculums:
Painting
Drawing
Color Theory
Clay Modeling

Buy Art Curriculum

All rights reserved © 2025, Nature of Art®

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.

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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. If you are new or this is your first year starting an art program for Montessori Children this is the perfect place to get started. I’ll be sharing many resources here and tips in this blog.

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 and art curriculum honestly requires a bit of preparation and a basic understanding of your students’ learning capabilities. It can be challenging, even stressful, to create art lessons without prior experience in art. The common belief is that we should teach students about classical Masters and advanced Elements and Principles of Design from the start, but that’s not always necessary!

Students often find it difficult to grasp complex concepts without a solid foundation in simpler art lessons. Begin by focusing on the fundamental art elements; while there are many more to explore, starting with these basics for the initial months of art lessons is beneficial.

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

Start With Easy Art Concepts

Start by teaching very basic art elements such as:

  • LINE
  • SHAPE
  • COLOR
  • FORM

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

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

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 teaching books for montessori teachers, spramani elaun

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

Spramani Elaun – International Art Teacher Trainer

All rights reserved © 2025, Nature of Art®

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.

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Professional Development in Montessori Arts Education | Video Trainings

Professional Development in Montessori Visual Arts Education | 6 Video Trainings, yellow logo

6 Video Montessori Art Training

Earn 7 hours of professional development in visual arts education. Gain proper art literacy training to set up your classroom. Watch all 6 videos this summer. No more guessing on what art lessons you should be teaching!

There’s a lot of art advice out there that is not tailored to teach YOU proper art literacy for children. I’ve spent years designing curriculum and training courses to assist Montessori guides in effectively teaching 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 receive an invitation to a special Q&A session with me. This session aims to address all your questions and demonstrate the correct art materials to incorporate into your classroom. The live session is scheduled for mid-August (date TBA), allowing you ample time to watch and absorb the videos beforehand.


BUY 6 VIDEO BUNDLE NOW for instant access!
These summer 6-video trainings is on sale.
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What Visual Arts Looks Like For Children

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

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The Art Lessons You Should Teach First!


In this pre-recorded 1-hour training, Spramani delves into what Montessori art guides should prioritize teaching first. She outlines the key areas to focus on, provides examples of art lessons, and offers insights on what to present and demonstrate to children who are new to learning art. Gain access to a wealth of professional art teaching advice in this comprehensive session.
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How to Theme Art & The Natural World

Embark on a journey of discovery with Spramani in this enlightening 3-part video series spanning 2 hours. Discover how to engage your child outdoors, fostering scientific and artistic observation skills. Uncover the power of using art in conjunction with Montessori subjects to ignite a curiosity for the natural world and enhance knowledge. Learn how art lessons can intricately represent diverse aspects of Montessori topics found in nature, including seasons, soil layers, energy, rocks and minerals, fossils, landforms, water, flora, fauna, and the atmosphere.
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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!
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Positive Artful Ways To Talk To Your Students

She shares examples of how these conversations should sound, drawing upon her 30 years of experience in positively and supportively engaging with students to encourage creative expression as an art facilitator.

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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.
Limited Time Art Sale!
Buy Art Training Now
Start Your Art Learning Today!

Get instant access to all 6 videos. Enjoy a 3-year viewing window, giving you ample time to delve into the pre-recorded live sessions led by the esteemed art teacher, Spramani Elaun.

Whether you choose to watch on your phone, tablet, or desktop, these videos are available for your convenience anytime, anywhere. Get the necessary training to start art programming in your classroom.
BUY NOW, CLICK HERE

arts and craft book by Spramani Elaun

Spramani’s Books

Teach children visual arts

Art Book Shop

Curriculum For Children

Get step-by-step art curriculum to teach visual arts. Check out our 4 art curriculums:
Painting
Drawing
Color Theory
Clay Modeling

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PREPARING A MONTESSORI ART ENVIRONMENT AT HOME

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Whether your child attends a Montessori school, or you are starting to homeschool using Montessori curriculum, 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.

Art Space Benefits

Teaching art lessons has a ton of benefits that go beyond beautiful art. There are some other important reasons to create an art environment 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 have had numerous opportunities to create various Montessori art spaces. Here are the essential components I recommend for every Montessori home art environment:

  • Table: All activities should be conducted on a flat surface.
  • Chair: In addition to a sturdy table, children require a safe place to sit while working.
  • Floor Covering: This protects your floors from spills.
  • Light Source: A good light source is essential for children to work with colors effectively.
  • Storage: Art storage solutions vary in shapes and sizes, ranging from baskets, jars, plastic bins, shelves, to an art closet.
  • Sink: While the sink doesn’t need to be directly in the art space, it should be nearby and easily accessible. You can utilize a sink in a bathroom or kitchen for washing 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!

PREPARING A MONTESSORI ART ENVIRONMENT AT HOME

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, although 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 important! When I first started homeschooling, I was lax with this rule. 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!

ART AT HOME

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?

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.

PREPARING A MONTESSORI ART ENVIRONMENT AT HOME

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 be challenging, particularly when your entire family shares a living space or workspace. Ensure you establish a system to store art supplies that children cannot access. Numerous art supplies can stain and pose hazards to younger siblings. It is simple for little ones to grab paints and transport them to areas where you wouldn’t want stains. You can store smaller plastic bins in cabinets or larger bins in a garage.

I trust that I have offered helpful tips and the information you require to set up your child’s at-home art room space.

If you want to learn more check out my books HERE

10 Back To School Art Tips
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Spramani’s Books

Teach children visual arts

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Curriculum For Children

Get step-by-step art curriculum to teach visual arts. Check out our 4 art curriculums:
Painting
Drawing
Color Theory
Clay Modeling

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All rights reserved © 2025, Nature of Art®

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.

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Choice and Self-Pacing in Montessori Classrooms

early childhood montessori boy drawing, self pace activity

In a Montessori classroom, children have the freedom to explore their interests. Montessori children learn at their own pace. Montessori education has been transforming parents, educators and students over a century. In this blog I will focus on why the Montessori method focus on choice and self-pacing in Montessori Classrooms. And how it leads to more engaged and confident students.

Montessori Philosophy: A Brief Overview

Developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, the Montessori method is a child-centered educational approach. Montessori education focuses on nurturing the whole child. This includes cognitive, emotions, physical and socially. By hands-on experiential learning in a carefully prepared environment. Guides and facilitators rather than traditional teachers. One of the core principles of Montessori education is allowing children to choose. Students have the freedom to choose activities that interest them and work at their own pace.

montessori student working independently at table with clay

The Importance of Choice

1. Fostering Intrinsic Motivation

When children have the freedom to choose activities they develop a natural curiosity. This intrinsic motivation is a powerful driving force, leading to more engaged learning. The student takes ownership of their education. Intrinsic motivation also promotes love for lifelong learning. A Child will develop a genuine interest in acquiring knowledge and skills.

2. Encouraging Self-Confidence and Independence

As children make decisions about their learning, they build a sense of independence. They trust their instincts, and follow their passions. Taking responsibility for their own growth. This prepares them for future success by fostering resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills.

Choice and Self-Pacing in Montessori Classrooms

3. Catering to Individual Learning Styles and Needs

Each child is unique, with different learning styles, strengths, and needs. Montessori children work at their own pace. Montessori education acknowledges and embraces these differences. This ensures that every child has the opportunity to progress at a speed that suits them. It also enables teachers to provide personalized support, further enhancing the learning experience.

4. Cultivating a Collaborative Learning Environment

In a Montessori classroom, children often work in mixed-age groups. This encourages collaboration and peer learning. They can learn from one another, share ideas, and develop essential social skills. This collaborative environment fosters empathy, communication, and respect. Qualities that are vital for success in an interconneced communities.

Choice and Self-Pacing in Montessori Classrooms

The Lasting Impact of Choice and Self-Pacing

The Montessori approach’s emphasis on choice and self-pacing has many long-term benefits. Fostering intrinsic motivation, self-confidence, and independence, children develop strong foundations. This effects their lifelong learning and personal growth. They become adaptable, resourceful, and innovative thinkers. Montessori children grow to be able to take on challenges of today’s complex world.

The Montessori method’s focus on choice and self-pacing. Which sets it apart from traditional educational models. Creating an empowering and engaging learning environment. By embracing each child’s unique interests, learning styles, and needs. Montessori education cultivates confident, motivated, and well-rounded individuals. Preparing them to thrive in all aspects of life.

Want to learn more about Montessori Education:

Families & Montessori Education American Montessori Society

Association Montessori Internationale

Montessori Foundation Families

PREPARING A MONTESSORI ART ENVIRONMENT AT HOME

Montessori Art Guide – BUY NOW ONLINE

Buy The Way Children Make Art

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How to Teach Montessori Art Lessons Without Compromising Creativity
Montessori art curriculum, how to choose for students

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Spramani’s Books

Teach children visual arts

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Curriculum For Children

Get step-by-step art curriculum to teach visual arts. Check out our 4 art curriculums:
Painting
Drawing
Color Theory
Clay Modeling

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All rights reserved © 2025, Nature of Art®

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.

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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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Observation Skills: Art activities encourage children to observe the natural world around them, paying attention to details, colors, shapes and space.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.  

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