Abstract fire truck art in preschool

Let your children’s inner creativity shine with this process based art experience!

Last week we explored firefighters and fire safety. I prepared several different kinds of activities and this one was one of my favorites in many ways…

Providing a Source of Inspiration

I invited the children to make a fire truck with yellow, red, and black tape.  Before they made their own trucks, I gave them a little tutorial on how they could use the red tape to make a rectangle for the truck and a square for the cab. And they could use the black tape for the ladder and wheels, and the yellow tape for the sides.  Since creating a picture with tape is a new process for this class, I wanted to give the children some perspective on making a firetruck with the tape.

Preparing the Materials

Then I set out some paper, tape, and black markers so the children could try and make their own. The following firetruck is the one I made while providing my little tutorial…

Promoting Self-help Skills

Some of the children needed help getting the tape off of the roll and others figured out how to get their own tape. For those that needed a little help, I either held the tape out so they could cut it where they wanted or I asked them if they wanted a long or short piece and helped guide them in getting their tape.  By the end of the process, most of the children were pulling or cutting off their own tape…

Embracing the Creative Process

I invited the children to create their own version of the firetruck. As the children created their tape firetrucks, they would say things like “Now I need a ladder” or “This is my window.” It was neat to hear conversations emerging on things we had been talking about throughout our fire safety week!

Oh we had ladders and windows and firetruck pieces going every which direction.  This is why I titled this Abstract Firetruck Art!

The children were able to see their own firetrucks in their work  – and I was able to see it as well, no matter which way I turned the paper…

Adding Details to their Creations

Some children drew in a few passengers on their trucks as well…

And others added a few letters or “words” of their own on their paper…

Showcasing their Beautiful Works of Art

On my wall, I now have a wonderful collection of firetruck inspired abstract art… each and every one of them are unique! This is the beauty of process art. No two creations are alike and children are free to express themselves, knowing that their truly is no right or wrong way to create.

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Deborah J Stewart

Deborah J Stewart

Every time I think I know everything I need to know about teaching young children, God says, "Hold on a minute!" and gives me a new challenge.

Let me tell ya...

With each new challenge that you overcome, you will find yourself better equipped and more passionate about teaching young children.

God didn't call wimps to lead, teach, or care for His children. Nope, he has high expectations, so get ready. You will have to give your very best but after teaching for over 30 years, I can tell you that it is a wonderful and rewarding journey.

Whenever your calling feels hard, just remember, 'He who began a good work in you (and in the children you serve) will be faithful to complete it.'

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