Creative Beginnings: Book 1 — First Steps in Creative Art

Creative art activities for Children aged 12 to 24 months

Creativity begins long before a child can draw a recognisable picture.

Creative Beginnings: First Steps in Creative Art is designed to help parents, carers and early-years educators encourage young children to explore art through colour, movement, marks, materials and play.

Rather than teaching children how to copy an adult's picture or produce a perfect finished result, the activities encourage children to experiment, make choices and discover what happens when they create for themselves.

Through simple, enjoyable creative experiences, children can begin developing skills that reach far beyond art — including confidence, curiosity, communication, coordination, problem-solving and self-expression.

Inside you'll discover:

• Simple creative activities for toddlers and preschool children
• Ideas that encourage experimentation rather than copying
• Opportunities to explore colour, shape, texture and mark-making
• Activities designed to develop fine-motor skills and coordination
• Ways to encourage imagination, confidence and independent thinking
• Guidance for adults on supporting creativity without taking over

No artistic ability is required from the adult.

You don't need to teach your child how to make art.

You simply need to give them the opportunity to explore.

There is no right picture to make and no wrong way to create.

Let them make a mess.

Let them experiment.

Let them surprise you.

Welcome to Creative Beginnings.