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Homeschool Art Made Simple With Drawing Books

Homeschool art doesn't need to be complicated. Drawing books make art lessons simple, structured and fun. Here's how to build a homeschool art routine.

By Kevin Coulston, author and illustrator of 88 children’s art books · · 2 min read

Homeschool art can be simple: a drawing book, a few supplies and a regular time each week. Step-by-step drawing books give structure without much prep, and you can connect lessons to reading, science and history for cross-curricular learning.

Many homeschool parents feel unsure about teaching art, especially if they do not consider themselves artistic. The good news is you do not need to be an artist to run great art lessons.

A simple homeschool art routine

  • Twice a week: a 20-to-30-minute drawing lesson.
  • Once a week: free drawing or a creative project.
  • Monthly: an artist study or a gallery day.

Drawing books do the teaching

Step-by-step drawing books provide ready-made lessons. How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals is an easy place to start, with friendly animals that build confidence. Work through lessons in order, or match them to what you are studying.

Cross-curricular connections

  • Science: Draw animals you are learning about.
  • Reading: Illustrate scenes from books.
  • History: Draw historical figures and places.
  • Geography: Draw maps.
  • Writing: Write stories about drawings.

Multiple ages

Homeschool families often teach several ages at once. Everyone can do the same subject at different levels: tracing for young ones, step-by-step for middle kids, grid drawing for older ones. See drawing with kids of different ages.

Keep a portfolio

Date and save drawings to document progress. Portfolios can be useful for homeschool records.

Make it joyful

Homeschool art should be something kids look forward to. Play music, draw together and celebrate their work.

Questions parents ask

How do I teach art at home?

Use step-by-step drawing books, set a regular schedule, connect art to other subjects and keep a portfolio.

Do I need to be artistic to teach homeschool art?

No. Drawing books provide the lessons, and you can learn alongside your children.

How often should homeschoolers do art?

Two to three sessions a week of 20 to 30 minutes is a good starting point.

More in teachers and classrooms, or browse all 217 posts on the blog.

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