The passage of time, for young children, is deeply rooted in “special days.” Their birthday, holidays, the day they have dance class—these are concrete events that can be grasped before days of the week and months of the year are mastered. By focusing on traditions and customs linked to special days, I hope to give my students a jumping off point for telling personal narratives in their art.Additionally, elementary-age children’s concept of self is deeply rooted in the family. Reflecting on tradition and customs within their family, as well as the families of others, will give the students an opportunity to relate as well as highlight their unique experiences. So, I wanted to share this K–3 project I’ve just finished hanging up. We’ve been talking about community, custom, and tradition in art class, and everyone illustrated and wrote about a food that they eat on a special day!
As if that isn’t special enough, Ms. Martin has more gifts in store: “Next up in art class, students are continuing their exploration of personal narrative in the form of a miniature puppet theater in a box, inspired by the Brazilian ‘Caja Lambe Lambe’,” she explained. “The Caja Lambe Lambe as a medium is deeply intriguing to children, who have an affinity for the miniature and for creating scenes for play. These miniature puppet shows use a singular ‘set’ and take only a couple minutes to perform, which provides a helpful limit so that the act of creating visuals for a story does not become overwhelming.”
We eagerly await this adorable-sounding art exhibition!