It’s one of the rites of growing up. Children sitting cross-legged on their driveway or sidewalk, fingers covered with chalky rainbow colors as they let their imaginations run wild against the rough gray palette.

Adults may see those youthful attempts at art as unrefined, but they are more than just temporary landscapes and portraits destined to be washed away with the next rain or sprinkler cycle. The sidewalk art of children is a window into their souls. Souls filled with creative ideas, even if the child behind those creations may not become the next Van Gogh or Picasso.

Encouraging children to express themselves through art does more than just provide them a creative outlet. Artist and teacher Darlene Joubert points out that it also helps children develop qualities like perseverance, concentration, social skills, and a healthy self-image.

For a parent wanting to encourage their child to experience art, colored chalk is a great start. But you may also want to consider the National Gallery of Art’s Kid Zone website, nga.gov/kids/zone. It’s filled with interactive tools that allow kids to express themselves with no clean up afterwards—a great bonus for parents. The website provides a kaleidoscope of colors, images, and artistic playthings that will spark the spirit and help kids release the artist inside each of them. Enjoy!

Until next time...