One of the hardest parts about being an art teacher is advocating for your art program. Feeling vulnerable to budget cuts, constantly aligning with new standards, accommodating everyone’s perception and expectation of what art should be can be very challenging.

Recently I asked the Sparklers to share what their biggest struggles are right now in the art room…I love questions like this because it really gives you insight on how people are feeling and what their current struggles are. And the most fascinating thing for me is that everyone can relate.

Today’s episode addresses three very common struggles in the art room: reduced class time, art project expectations and explaining or defending art techniques or art philosophies.

You may be surprised what all these struggles have in common and how to best eliminate them from your day.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: 

Why one of the hardest parts about being an art teacher is advocating for your art program

Like children, no two art teachers are alike

How as a creative you do have the capacity to think outside of the box to solve problems

Why you should look at changing your perception of the problem - instead of battling the administration

How the amount of excitement you show will affect the engagement of the children

How your children are your advocates, and the way you talk to the parents through the art

Questions to ask yourself to help define your art room intentions

How your end-of-the-year art show will answer every question that parents and administrations have about your art program

How the Four Agreements have transformed Patty's life

LISTEN TO THE SHOW

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SHOW NOTES: 

Letter to a First Year Art Teacher AME 001

The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom Book) by Don Miguel Ruiz *affiliate link