[FireWithin]

I was wondering if anyone has ever read this book. It is by the same woman who wrote the anti-coloring books, and Young at Art. It was published in 1985.

I really enjoyed it a lot. Although not labeled so, she is very AP, and I would guess TCS (but I don't know much about it to say for sure.)

One of the main points of her book is how to encourage creativity in your child in all areas of life, not just art. But, I think it was more than that. It really was about respecting your child and creating a healthy environment that allows him to explore.

I thought she was great, but sometimes disliked her tone, and she had a few serious glitches that I haven't seen her answer yet. I plan on checking otu her website to see ifshe addresses some things I consider problems.

I recommend this book.

 

[flyingspaghettimama]

I agree. I've written with her a few times online as well, and she's a very cool person, but extremely opinionated about art and children and not a lot of gray area. I don't agree with her assessment of Montessori, and I have seen teachers assist with children's art in a very non-interfering way (Reggio Emilia approach in particular does teach technique at about three+). But overall, I think all of her books are great, and I love the drawings and great ideas, and she's a voice that's very, very uniquely needed within the art-as-process and preschool communities.

 

[MelKnee]

Reading Please Touch is what made me want to have kids!

Before that, all the families I knew (including my own) seemed to view children as a burden or chore. That book showed me the fun and joy of having kids. It was definitely what showed me the path to AP.

 

[Dawn-o-might]

Ohhh! I am so glad you posted! I am always looking for a post on Susan Striker. I love her books! I actually picked up "Please Touch" first at a used book store. The title really grabbed my attention, and loved it so much that I ordered "Young at Art" from Amazon. I have told my friends about it and they have ordered copies too. I think that some of her opinions are a little judmental and rigid, though. When I first read them my DS was under 6 months old and I was so stressed out that I wasn't giving him enough exposure to the arts. And I felt guilty that he played with battery opperated toys. But it made me rethink my opinion on TV. Now, I have relaxed more and just take from the books what I feel I need and leave the rest. They are still among my favorites. Thanks for posting.

Dawn

 

[ekblad9]

I'm bummed. Our library doesn't have it. I'll have to keep an eye out at used book stores. I have Young At Art and have referred to it many times. Thanks for suggesting this book!

 

[bu's mama]

Very interesting. I'm looking forward to checking it out! Somewhat OT, but this is why I

MDC - I find out so many new & interesting things!

Quote:

Originally Posted by ekblad8 ...Our library doesn't have it...

Neither did mine, but I can put a request through inter-library loan & get it from anywhere in the county. Is that an option for you?

 

[allbrightmama]

Now I really can't wait to read it! Our library didn't have it either but they did special order it for me from an out-of-network library and I picked it up last week. I have been trying to finish the book I am currently reading first but I can forget about that now.

"Young At Art" really resonated with me. It was the first "art book" for kids that I found that didn't feel contrived or disrespectful of a child's creative process. Susan Striker does come across as very opinionated but I think it is the general attitude toward creativity rather than her specific guidelines that is truely valuable.

The hardest thing for me to overcome with what I have read so far is the fact that she only has one child. It is a personal issue I know I have but I prefer authors of parenting books to be able to personally address situations that involve siblings and children with differing personalities. I still recomend her 100% and agree that hers is a name that belongs on this forum.

I am off to read now!

 

[taliasully]

A friend gave me this book when my son was born( he's now two) It has been on the shelf because I haven't heard much about it, I will read it now for sure!