Teaching Art in a School

by Andrea Mulder-Slater

Art and/or classroom teachers working in schools, must balance creativity with structure, fostering students’ artistic growth while also meeting institutional goals and standards. 

It can be a challenge, but also so rewarding!

Below are some essential areas of knowledge, physical resources, and key responsibilities for art and classroom teachers.

KNOWLEDGE

Art Techniques and Concepts:
Art teachers should have an understanding of the elements of art (line, shape, color, texture, form, space, and value) and the principles of design (balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, pattern, rhythm, and unity).

Knowing these concepts will help you with your lesson planning and teaching. 

But don’t panic, it’s all pretty straightforward.

Child Development and Learning Styles:
Understanding how children learn and develop at various ages is extremely helpful when teaching. Art teachers must consider age-appropriate activities that support motor skills, cognitive growth, and creativity.

Curriculum Design:
Teachers often need to consider how their lessons align with local, state/provincial, or national art education standards.

But, here’s the truth… fulfilling the requirements is actually pretty simple. Reason being, if you are providing robust art lessons, you will naturally touch on the standards without even trying. 

Teachers also need to plan units and activities that gradually build students’ skills and knowledge over time. We call this scaffolding and it is a treat to watch children grow in their abilities. 

Classroom Management:
Managing a classroom of students with different skill levels, behaviors, and needs requires strong classroom management skills. Strategies can include establishing clear rules, using positive reinforcement, building relationships with your students, and creating a supportive and respectful learning environment. 

Assessment and Feedback:
Depending on their administration, art teachers need to assess students’ work using rubrics, critiques, and portfolios. 

Diversity and Inclusivity:
Art teachers should foster an inclusive classroom environment that celebrates cultural diversity and encourages students to express their unique perspectives. Providing lessons that connect with all students, is essential. 

PHYSICAL SPACE AND MATERIALS

Classroom Setup:

A well-organized art room supports creativity and learning. Ideally, key features include:

• Large tables and chairs for group work.
• Ample lighting, including natural light if possible.
• Access to sinks for easy cleanup.

Storage Solutions:
Art classrooms require organized storage for supplies, including cabinets, shelves, and labeled bins. Dedicated spaces for student projects, drying racks, and portfolios are also helpful.

Art Supplies:
A wide variety of materials is necessary to accommodate different projects and techniques, including:

• Basic supplies: paper, pencils, erasers, scissors, and glue.
• Paints: tempera, acrylic, watercolors.
• Tools: brushes, palettes, sponges.
• Specialized materials: clay, pastels, charcoal, and printmaking tools.

Equipment:
Larger equipment might include easels, drying racks, kilns, and technology like projectors or tablets. Safety equipment, such as aprons and gloves, should also be considered.

Now, in a perfect world, all art and classroom teachers would have access to all of these materials. However, we know that this isn’t always the case.

In my 25+ years of teaching in schools, I think I only had a sink in my room once. And as for storage… what’s that? I worked from the trunk of my car most of the time. 

The point is, you should not let a lack of resources stop you from making the most of your situation. You may not be able to create massive paintings on easels, but you can still give your students fantastic creative experiences. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Lesson Planning:
Art teachers must create detailed lesson plans that are engaging, age-appropriate, and aligned with educational standards. Plans should  ideally outline objectives, materials, procedures, and assessments. That’s where we at The KinderArt Club come in.

Facilitating Creativity:
Encouraging students to explore their creativity while guiding them through structured projects is a delicate balance. Teachers should aim for a creative environment where students feel safe taking risks and experimenting.

Cleanup and Maintenance:
Managing cleanup systems is crucial for maintaining a functioning classroom. This includes organizing materials, teaching students to clean up after themselves, and ensuring materials are in decent condition.

Safety Protocols:
Ensuring the safety of students is a top priority.

Teachers should:

• Use non-toxic materials.
• Establish emergency procedures.
• Train students in proper use of tools and materials.

Building Relationships:
Strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues foster a positive learning environment. Communication skills are vital for addressing concerns and celebrating achievements. It can be hard when you are one of the “specials” teachers and you might often feel alone. Organizing art shows or posting images of artwork in your school groups can help to foster a sense of inclusion. 

BOTTOM LINE

Art teachers play a vital role in shaping students’ creativity and appreciation for the arts.

By combining technical expertise, thoughtful planning, and a nurturing approach, art teachers can inspire and guide their students while creating meaningful and lasting educational experiences.

CREATIVE CONFIDENCE FOR CLASSROOM/ART TEACHERS

You don’t need to be an art expert to bring great art lessons into your classroom.

Our KinderArt Club gives you access to professionally designed, kid-tested lessons for ages 5 through 12 (and beyond) that are simple to teach and easy to fit into your weekly schedule.

Whether you’re a generalist teaching multiple subjects, or an art teacher looking for extra inspiration, or you’re looking for meaningful activities for early finishers, we’ve got you covered.

Each theme-based bundle is organized so you can jump right in, which perfect for busy teachers who don’t have time to sift through piles of ideas on Pinterest.

Tips for Success:

Plan ahead: Use our bundles as monthly themes, or sprinkle individual lessons throughout the year for seasonal or curricular tie-ins.

Fit any timeframe: Most lessons can be completed in 40–60 minutes, and many include extensions if you have multiple class periods. 

Use what you have: Our supply lists are easy to customize. If you don’t have paint, try the same lesson with crayons or oil pastels. Our projects are designed to be adaptable.

Differentiate with ease: We include suggestions for modifying lessons by age and ability, making them suitable for a wide range of learners, including those with special needs.

Cross-curricular integration: Connect art to your literacy, science, or history units. We include suggestions in each lesson.

Teaching art can be a joyful part of your week, not a cause of stress. With our lessons, you’ll feel confident, and your students will stay engaged.