Process vs Product Art

  • Process art focuses on the experience of creating and exploring materials, rather than the end product. With preschoolers, it’s best to emphasize the process and let go of expectations for the final artwork.
  • Provide open-ended materials that allow for exploration, such as paint, playdough, markers, crayons, glue, paper, and more. Avoid pre-made crafts with step-by-step instructions.
  • Encourage preschoolers to experiment with the materials without giving too much direction. Ask open-ended questions like “What can you create with these materials?” rather than telling them what to make.
  • Focus praise and attention on their efforts, problem-solving, and approach rather than the aesthetics of the final product. Say things like “Tell me about what you’re making” rather than “That’s so pretty!”
  • Allow plenty of time for unstructured creating. Don’t rush them to finish something in a short time frame. The process is what’s important.
  • Display and appreciate all types of creations, not just the visually appealing ones. Photos of the process are just as meaningful as the end result.
  • Let go of messy clean-up. The end result is not what matters, so don’t worry about keeping them spotless during the creating process.

The goal of process art is to nurture creativity, self-expression and exploration – not beautiful artworks. Keep the focus on your child’s unique approach and enjoyment of the experience.

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