In 2022, I started a new program at my library that I called the Tiny True Play Studio. All of my play programs in the past have focused mainly on the physical, whole-body types of play and this one I wanted to focus more on the sort of play that happens in "art spaces." Each week, I'd bring out paper, markers, stickers, fancy scissors and hole punches, paint and retired COVID sneeze guards (which make excellent easels and painting surfaces, btw) and then step back to see what the kids would do with those materials.
Most adults, when they walked up and saw the program, or when I tried to describe it to them would say to their child, "Oh! An art program! Do you want to draw something, honey?" but I quickly discovered that this program was so much more than a kids' art program. Although some adults had difficulty resisting the fully understandable urge to instruct their kid to paint or to draw or to make SOMETHING with these art supplies, those who were able to step back were rewarded with some of the most interesting and innovative play I've seen.
I observed invented games with acorns, hole punches and paper
the wind became an entertaining play material
Scissors became tools to pick up leaves to create a pile to jump in with friends.
Markers and caps themselves became objects with which to create a collage/sculpture....
And more!
The wonderful thing about this realization is that (1) you likely already have these materials or similar materials on hand. Play doesn't have to be about purchasing particular materials. (2) You might even already be doing programs that use "art materials" and all it takes is for you to step back and give the caregivers in the program encouragement to allow their kids to explore the materials however they want. Even if (maybe especially if) it means that you don't have yet another "thing" to take home at the end of the program to stick on your refrigerator. You're welcome.
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