When I was younger any one of these gifts would have made my heart melt, and even now some of them would! It can be hard to know what inspires young children and will keep them engaged, but I am hopeful you will find some good ideas here to stimulate your student’s creative side!
For the young creators in Grammar School:
The sweetest beginner sewing and knitting kit: http://www.magiccabin.com/moulin-roty-thread-craft-kit.htm
Large Lap Loom, create your own textiles (similar to the one in the 5th grade classroom).
A knitting spool (only $8.95!) is great way for little girls to get started.
Pottery Wheel for kids AND if the thought of that terrifies you a bit then read this, you’re not alone: http://artfulparent.com/2012/10/getting-over-my-clay-hang-up-a-pottery-wheel-for-kids.html
Usborne Books has a TON of amazing art activity and coloring books for young ones, but I really like this one. It teaches children how to draw things on their own using simple shapes.
Don’t forget…Amanda Crooks, Veritas' 2nd Grade Assistant, is giving all of her commission from any books sold by Christmas to Veritas! Shop Usbourne here and click on the “Activity” category in the left column for a gazillion cool art books: https://u4924.myubam.com
KiwiCrate (ages 5-8) or the Doodle Crate (ages 9-16) -your child will get everything they need for a new craft or DIY activity every month.
Mr. Sketch Markers - the best markers for grade school kids - they last longer than Crayola and they smell delicious! (They do make washable ones, these are not.)
Tempera Paint Sticks - get the richer color of paint, but without the mess of brushes and water.
BIG Paper - It can be a challenge to store and display BIG masterpieces, but for some reason BIG paper is SO fun and exciting for kids.
For the more mature creators in Secondary School:
Make your own Textiles with the Large Lap Loom.
Screen Print your own shirts and more with this amazing kit!
Jewelry Stamping set
Calligraphy - Is a wonderful art form especially for students who enjoy activities like card making, or illustrating.
Ink and Pens starter set
Grids for under the paper (helps to keep your angles and lines consistent)
And a “how to” book (this actually IS on my Christmas list): Creative Lettering and Beyond
Art History Books - Find inspiration, and understand how art has evolved through the centuries:
Art: Over 2,500 Works from Cave to Contemporary
Artist Quality Supplies:
Prismacolor Pencils - These pencils are really nothing like Crayola pencils. The pigment is so soft and they are designed to blend together, so the range of colors you can achieve is endless. Perfect to use with those adult coloring books that are so popular.
Prismacolor Illustration Markers - These markers are also unique in their blending capability and you will find that they don’t make streaks when coloring a large area (the way cheaper markers do).
Oil Pastels - Not all oil pastels are created equal, and the prices vary widely, but this set is an excellent deal on Amazon and they are nice and soft.
