MELODY WEINTRAUB

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Keep Your Heads Up!

I just returned from my state art education conference where I presented a lesson to my peers on how to use a Styrofoam head in the art classroom. Participants received a head and I brought all kinds of materials they could use to embellish it. I showed them how I used the heads, but gave very little instruction, except how to use the materials. In other words..I let them play. They didn’t want to leave, so I pulled some strings and extended their time. They walked away smiling and refreshed. They needed it. I did too. Before they left, I gave them a little clay medallion that I had made with a face embossed on it along with the word, “ART.” I told them to keep it nearby always to remember to, “keep their heads up.” No matter how tough your day is going or has been, keep a little reminder nearby..a pretty stone..a handmade something..that you can touch to remember that in spite of the dirty sinks, piles of paperwork, classroom management issues, etc., you have a job where your“office” is a studio filled with your favorite things. Inspire those little ones who come to “play,” and you have had a successful day. Keep your heads up!