Elementary Art Lessons, Projects & Teaching Ideas for K–5

Because art is fundamental to who we are. Art has always been a basic form of human communication. From cave walls to classroom walls, art helps us express ideas, tell stories, and better understand the world around us. I believe art is an essential part of every child's education, which is why I chose the name Art is Basic. Here you'll find K–5 creative art lessons, teaching ideas, and printable resources to help K–5 art teachers inspire young artists.
A Viking longship with striped sails navigating icy waters, with snowy mountains in the background. The sturdy ship moves gracefully through the cold sea.

Clay Viking Ships

To complement their study of explorers, the Primaries made clay Viking ships.  We started by rolling a flat slab of clay with a rolling pin and then cutting out the bottom of the boat.  Next, we rolled coils…

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A colorful child's painting of a bird with a purple head and blue body, framed by a yellow and orange patterned border inspired by African cloths.

African Korhogo Cloths

The Intermediates (grade 3) are studying Africa in their Social Studies class.  We learned about the African Korhogo Clothes.  This project focused on how symbols are used in African art.  The students designed their own painted Korhogo cloth…

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A red and white knitted ball with a yarn tail on a green surface adorned with leaf patterns.

Knitted Balls

I really like to knit, but I’m not that skilled at it.  I would say I’m probably an intermediate level knitter.  I’m not good at precise things, and many times I’ll be knitting something and end up with…

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A textured, heart-shaped clay ornament tied with raffia and red yarn on a white background.

Clay Hearts

Easy Clay Hearts for Kindergarten This project teaches how to roll coils and basic glazing techniques. 1.  Step one, Demonstrate rolling coils.2.  Form the coils on a pre-drawn heart handout.  Press firmly to adhere together.  A little bit…

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Child's drawing of a face on a paper plate with a blue hat, surrounded by paper hands on sticks, resembling Alaskan masks.

Alaskan Masks

  In November the students are learning about the characteristics and functions of Alaskan masks as well as the cultural traditions of Native Alaskans.  They are making a 3-D mask using typical characteristics— animal or human features, fur,…

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