Let Them Choose: The Power of Open-Ended Art

If you’ve ever peeked into a kids’ art class and seen rows of nearly identical penguins, pumpkins, or parrots, you’ve likely encountered step-by-step art. You might wonder: Is this good for kids? Are they learning anything? Shouldn’t art be more creative? Let’s talk it out!

What Is Step-by-Step Art?

Step-by-step art means a teacher demonstrates a project and children follow along, replicating each step. Think: “First draw a circle. Now add a triangle. Now color it blue.”

It’s a structured approach that can be helpful for building:

• Fine motor skills

• Following directions

• Confidence with new materials

There’s value in helping kids learn how to draw something new — especially if it’s their first time using watercolors or drawing a cat.

But here’s the catch: step-by-step art can’t be the whole story.

Why Step-by-Step Alone Falls Short

When every child’s artwork looks the same, we’re missing a big piece of what art can do.

At its best, art:

• Encourages original thinking

• Supports self-expression

• Builds creative confidence

• Offers space to experiment, take risks, and make mistakes

If we’re only telling kids how to make something, they don’t get to ask themselves: What do I want to make? How do I want it to look?

That’s where the magic of art happens.

So What’s the Better Approach?

At Corner House Studio, we believe kids need more than just steps to follow. They need:

• Choice: space to make decisions about colors, shapes, and ideas

• Process: time to explore materials and follow their curiosity

• Voice: opportunities to tell their own stories through art

That’s why we balance structure with freedom. We might introduce a new material or technique, but we always leave room for kids to put their own spin on it. Maybe one kid’s bird has five wings. Maybe another’s is purple with roller skates. We say: Yes! Tell me more about it.

The Bottom Line

Step-by-step art isn’t “bad.” It’s just the beginning. Like training wheels, it can help kids build skills and confidence — but eventually, we want them to ride their own creative bike. Because when kids create from their own ideas, they’re not just learning to make art — they’re learning to think for themselves.

And that’s what really sticks.

Come Create with us!

If you want your child to experience the joy of creating something truly their own, we’d love to welcome them to a class or camp at Corner House Studio. Our programs are designed to inspire imagination, build confidence, and help every young artist find their voice. Registration is open now — come make something wonderful with us!