The need for children to be creative while schools are closed is critical and Create CA is providing resources and highlighting the power of art to heal with their new campaign #CreateAtHome.

ArtsIntegration.net, the web home of three federal arts integration grants for over 40 schools in California has created new resources for parents, teachers, and students to use during this time. These creative lessons can be found at ArtsIntegration.net/CreateAtHome

These lessons were designed to be done at home with everyday materials. Each is offered as a video lesson as well as a paper handout for children without internet access.

• Photojournalism asks students to document how the pandemic is changing their world.  By documenting the scenes they see and writing about them, children are empowered to chronicle this time in history.
• Art from Nature uses the work of Andy Goldsworthy as inspiration for creating site-specific sculptures using materials that can be found in nature.
• Art From Anything reminds us that artists often work with whatever is available.  Children can create with the most minimal of supplies-often things that are not traditionally considered art materials.
• Eight art skills lessons are also offered in oil pastel/crayon, watercolor, and pencil drawing.

Research from Harvard University has shown that creating visual art can reduce stress and promote relaxation in people who are homebound.  Studies have shown that expressing themselves through art can help people with depression, anxiety, and resilience.  These are critical supports for children anytime but especially during the stresses of school closures and the COVID-19 pandemic.

For more information, please contact Bill Funkhouser, Arts & Creativity Initiative Coordinator at bfunkhouser@hcoe.org or (707) 616-3608.