How to Set Up a Creative Art Corner at Home, Even in a Small Flat

Little hands, big ideas

Drawing, colouring and making things help children practise hand control, express feelings and try out ideas. But many families in Nairobi live in compact flats, and the thought of paint on the sofa is enough to put anyone off. A dedicated art corner solves both problems: children know where to create, and you know where the mess stays.

Pick the right spot

You only need a small space. Good options include:

• A corner of the dining table, cleared at set times.
• A low table near a window for natural light.
• A fold-away table on the balcony, weather permitting.

Choose a spot with an easy-to-wipe floor, or lay down an old kanga, mat or plastic sheet underneath.

The basics to start with

Resist buying everything at once. Start simple and add as interest grows:

• Crayons for younger children, as they are easy to grip.
• Coloured pencils for detail work.
• Washable markers for bright, bold drawing.
• Colouring books for focus and confidence.
• Plain paper for free drawing, which matters just as much.
• Child-friendly scissors and glue for older children, with an adult nearby.

Paints and modelling materials can come out on special days, so they stay exciting.

Storage that children can use

If children can reach and put away their own supplies, they will create more and tidy more. Try:

1. Clear jars or tins for pencils and crayons, sorted by type.
2. A shallow box or tray for paper and colouring books.
3. A shoe box per child for their unfinished projects.
4. Labels with pictures for children who cannot yet read.

Keep the higher shelf for anything that needs an adult, such as paint or glitter.

Taming the mess

• Use an old oversized shirt as an apron.
• Keep a damp cloth within reach.
• Put only a few colours out at a time.
• Make tidying part of the activity: "Art time ends when the jars are full."

Show off their work

Children feel proud when their art is valued. String a line across a wall with pegs, or use a corner of the fridge as a gallery. Rotate pieces weekly, and keep a folder of favourites. Grandparents love receiving a drawing in the post or a photo on the family group.

Encourage, do not correct

A purple elephant is a creative choice, not a mistake. Ask open questions such as "Tell me about your picture" instead of "What is it?" Praise effort, ideas and colour choices. This keeps art joyful and helps children build confidence.

Ideas to spark creativity

• Draw your family, your street or your favourite meal.
• Colour a page using only three colours.
• Make a card for a friend's birthday.
• Draw what you would see on a safari.

Fill your art corner

Find crayons, colouring books and art supplies in our colouring and art range, or visit Ivag Kids Store at Dynamic Mall on Tom Mboya Street. See our ordering details to plan your visit.