Are Kids Actually Getting Enough High Quality Art Instruction?

Mar 8

Are kids truly getting the high quality art instruction they deserve, or is creativity taking a backseat in today’s classrooms? While schools emphasize STEM subjects, arts education may get “put on the back burner”. Does the problem lie in access, curriculum, or something deeper? In this article, we’ll explore whether students are receiving the enriching, skill-building art education they need—and what can be done to ensure every child benefits from high quality art instruction. If you’re a homeschooling parent or just want to ensure your creative kiddos are getting enough art, here are five key signs to look for—plus where to start if your student needs more.

5 Signs Your Child May Not Be Getting Enough High-Quality Art Instruction

5 images of signs kids might not be getting enough quality art instruction with green header that says "5 Signs Your Child May Not Be Getting Enough High Quality Art Instruction"

Your Student Rarely Engages in Open-Ended Creativity.

A strong art education goes beyond craft projects and step-by-step activities. Rather, lessons are thoroughly planned with a clear purpose and objective and are developmentally appropriate for the student. A question you might ask is, “Does my child have opportunities for self-expression and experimentation in art?”

Your Student Doesn’t Learn About Art Beyond the Basics.

A high quality art program includes art history, varied techniques, and exposure to a wide variety of art styles. If you have this concern, ask “Does my child only do simple drawing and crafts, or are they learning new artistic approaches?”

Your Child’s School or Homeschool Routine Lacks Dedicated Art Time

Many kids lack structured, regular art lessons due to time constraints. Art isn’t just about drawing and painting—it fosters problem-solving skills, self-expression, and fine motor development. Without structured opportunities for artistic exploration, kids may struggle to develop confidence in their creativity and critical thinking. If this sounds like a concern, ask, “How often does my child engage in a thoughtful, planned art experience?”

Your Student Seems Disinterested in Art

There may be times when students aren’t interested in an art lesson. Kids may avoid participating in art lessons if they feel intimidated or haven’t found the right medium. When students seem disinterested in art, it’s often not a lack of creativity but rather a reflection of how art is presented to them. If you observe a lack of interest, ask, “Does my child see art as fun, or do they resist creative activities?”

Your Student Views Art as a Product, Not a Process

Finally, high quality art instruction focuses on exploration and creativity, not just the finished piece. It encourages students to experiment with different materials, techniques, and ideas, allowing them to discover their unique artistic voice rather than simply aiming for a perfect final product. By prioritizing the creative process, students build confidence, develop critical thinking skills, and learn that mistakes are valuable opportunities for growth rather than failures. If you feel like there is too much focus placed on the final product, ask, “Does my child rush through projects just to finish, or do they take time to enjoy the creative process?”

Where to Start If Your Child Needs More Art

1. Start Small with Open-Ended Creative Time

kid making art with bumble bees on it with a purple header that says start small with open ended creative time

Set up a simple, accessible art space at home with workspace and creative materials. You might stock it with a variety of supplies such as paper, paints, glue, recyclables, and basic art tools. You can encourage open-ended exploration by organizing materials for easy access and fostering a mindset where experimentation and hands-on learning are key. You can make your homeschooling environment a creative homeschooling environment with just a few small tweaks to the space. (Here are some furniture must-haves for artsy spaces.)

2. Find Engaging, High-Quality Art Resources

subscription box showing art supplies from outside the box creation with a blue header that says find engaging high quality art resources — Got a curious kid in your life? Complement their artistic curiosity with weekly lessons and exciting adventures – all in one box, delivered monthly to your door by Outside the Box Creation!

Look for structured but flexible programs that encourage real creativity. One of the best places I’ve found to start is on Outside the Box Creation (OTBC). You’ll find Art and Literacy Integration activities there. Their box kits combine storytelling with hands-on art projects. I just love them, and I know your student(s) will too. They have step-by-step instructions, but they are open-ended for flexible usage. Teachers and homeschooling parents can break up the projects into multiple sessions so that kids learn at a comfortable pace instead of feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts…

Every child should have access to high-quality creative learning, whether at school or at home. If your child’s artistic opportunities are limited, small adjustments—like adding more creative time or incorporating structured programs such as Outside the Box Creation—can make a big difference.