Yeay for summer! For those warmer days when indoor activities are more ideal or for lake and beach activities, check out these summer art books that your learners will enjoy reading and, hopefully, they will feel inspire to create art.

*Click on an image to learn more about each book.

Yesterday my kids and I took a trip to the library and I wanted to check out books that were more fun and playful (a departure from our living books and learning books). This was an effort to get them to enjoy reading more. This morning we read, "What's Your Favorite Color?" by Eric Carle and Friends and it's a such a creative and quick read. Kids learn color while reading words that are descriptive and imaginative. I think I enjoyed it more than they did. So I encourage you to go check this book out at your library or if you want to add it to your own library, purchase it at Thriftbooks or Amazon (two of my favorite sites to buy used and new books). Happy Reading!

I am excited to share this bright and colorful book in PDF format, that will help your elementary students recognize letters and art terms. There are crisp examples and some interactive activities in this book. Use as an aid for art term discussions and thought. Easily print it out from your computer, place in sheet protectors and a 3-ring binder for on the go lessons.​ ​Have fun!

This is a fun lesson inspired by Michel Keck art prints that uses the concept of collage to create a quirky art piece. Good for all ages but this activity is directed towards Pre-K. You can follow the lesson for free or purchase  the printouts and visuals below. 

SILLY PET COLLAGE
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
I can use scissors with control. I know the meaning of collage. I am able to express myself artistically.

SUPPLIES
Color construction paper, plain paper, newspaper, magazines, or pages from old books, glue or glue sticks, scissor, crayons or markers.

INSTRUCTIONS
Think: Discuss the print, "Snorkie" by Michel Keck.

1) Choose material that will be used to display the collage. This will be the material that the collage pieces are glued to.
2) Draw an outline of collage image(s) or use the printables provided in the download. 
3) Cut or tear materials to form shapes.
4) Glue shapes within the outline images(s).
5) Draw shapes and lines.

Don't for your artist's signature.

Teach: Teach artist about how different lines and patterns create texture.
Tips: Color or paint some areas of the collage that are plain.