Introducing Color

Often when we are exposing children to artistic exploration we begin with color. We start with color because it is the easiest for us to identify and reiterate in every day conversations. Often we find ourselves able to confirm lessons learned about color in daily observations relating to the clothes we wear, the the things we see, and even the food we eat..
When introducing color to children, just like introducing any complex concepts, the key is to do so in small steps with age appropriate activities. You wouldn't try to explain intensity to your 14month old but that doesn't mean you won't be able to explore it.
Before we look at practical applications let's explore those key points relating to color.

Color

Color is an element of art with three properties:

1) Hue, the name of the color, e.g. red, yellow, etc. 

2) Intensity or the purity and strength of the color such as brightness or dullness. 

 

3) value, or the lightness or darkness of the color.