Celebrating Art

This past weekend was the Columbus Arts Festival. Ava and I made a special trip to enjoy the sites and sounds. Her favorite booths featured clocks in the shape of cat faces, wooden toys, unique birdhouses, and any booth feature purses or bags. Ava loves being outside and has always been comfortable around different groups of people. She was very interested in the art we were viewing and enjoyed exploring.

Ava is at the age were she is extremely interested in creating her own art whether drawing, painting, or playdough. There was a great area set-up with activities for children but she is still a little young for what was offered. Maybe next year she can take advantage of the children's area.

We shared a delicious dish of Jeni's Ice Cream and danced to the music of a jazz band.

To celebrate a weekend of art, we are reading new picture books that feature exceptional illustrations.

• Moon Rabbit by Natalie Russell is a story of friendship with simple but sweet illustrations.

• Hello, Baby! by Mem Fox and illustrated by Steve Jenkins pairs simple rhyme with beautifully executed cut-paper collage.

• The Secret Circus by Johanna Wright shares a secret circus performance through dreamlike illustrations.

Sharing stories with appealing illustrations will help foster Print Motivation in your child. For older children you can extend the connection by creating art in the style of the illustrator.