Teaching Art to Children Online: Best Practices and Challenges

While the traditional in-person art classes require a deep connection and understanding of each child's artistic choices and personal growth, the shift towards online education has brought about new challenges and opportunities. Teaching children art online requires a different approach and a different set of skills. Here are some best practices and challenges to consider when teaching art to children through a virtual platform.

Challenges of Teaching Art Online to Children

One significant challenge of teaching art to children online is the lack of physical presence and interaction. Unlike in-person classes, online platforms cannot capture the full range of a child's artistic expression and development. You cannot see their facial expressions, the intensity of their colors, or their level of detail. Each child has unique artistic preferences and styles, which cannot be thoroughly observed and understood without direct interaction. For instance, a girl in one of my classes started painting personal themes like her attachment to her 12-year-old girlfriend, which would have been missed in an online setting.

Using Technology to Enhance Online Art Classes

While traditional in-person art classes are more effective, online art classes can still be successful through strategic use of technology. For adults, online art classes can work well because they can watch demonstrations and follow along with about 20-30 minutes of instruction. After the session, they critique and show their work, ensuring engagement and progress. However, these methods are less effective for children due to their shorter attention spans and varying levels of concentration, often hindered by technology.

Adapting to Online Education

When I entered the world of online teaching in 2019, I immediately recognized that many experienced teachers faced significant challenges adapting to the new environment. Basic technology issues, such as navigating intuitive tools and dealing with bugs, posed major hurdles. However, those experienced with technology, like myself, could adapt more easily. I used to provide my own subtitles in real-time in the Google Meet chat, which helped students engage with the content more effectively.

Key Strategies for Successful Online Art Education

Here are some key strategies to make online art education successful for children:

Harness the Resources of the Internet: Use the full extent of the internet as your classroom. Utilize videos, interactive websites, online games, web-based apps, and virtual meetings with experts. Ensure that these resources are engaging and relevant to the students. Modify Expectations: Prioritize students' well-being over completing assignments and quality. Understand that the global pandemic has traumatized and frightened children, and focus on supporting their mental health. Create Relevant and Interesting Content: Base your content on living, relevant artists whose work can be explored virtually. Avoid teaching dead white guy artists unless it is necessary and directly relevant to your students. Maintain Accessibility: Make your content accessible to as many people as possible. Post your content on platforms where identities are not exposed. Ensure that all students have access to the necessary materials or provide alternatives. Evaluate Your Purpose: When teaching online, take the opportunity to reassess your reasons for teaching and ensure you are contributing meaningfully to your students' lives.

Conclusion

Teaching art to children online is a complex task that requires understanding the unique challenges and adapting to a new educational environment. By leveraging technology wisely, focusing on the well-being of your students, and providing content that is both relevant and engaging, you can create a successful and meaningful online art class.

Remember, the goal is to support the artistic journey and development of your young students. With the right approach, online art education can be a valuable and enriching experience.