Some Ideas for Engaging Upper Primary Boys in Art

Sometimes Engaging upper primary boys in art class can be challenging! Choosing a theme that appeals to their interests can make it easier. Upper primary boys often love the thrill of deadly and dangerous animals, so incorporating this theme into your art projects can spark their interest.

The Creative Kids Art Lessons unit on Deadly and Dangerous animals has art projects that focus on Poison Dart Frogs, Lionfish and the Blue-Ringed Octopus to get them inspired. There are drawing, watercolour and clay projects for a range of materials to create with.

Why is it difficult to get some older boys engaged in art?

Between 9 and 12 kids start becoming more self-conscious. If they think they’re not “good” at art, they might avoid it to prevent embarrassment. Kids at this age also might compare themselves to others and feel discouraged if they don’t think their work is as good.

Then there’s also the interest in technology, and the level of engagement there. Many boys are more drawn to video games, animations, and digital media rather than traditional drawing or painting. In comparison, traditional art forms can seem less exciting.

Art projects from the Deadly and Dangerous unit

Some Ideas to Boost Engagement

Boys at this age like to be competitive so you could introduce challenges with timed art tasks. Working collaboratively on a mural or large artwork can also be engaging. Let them choose topics that focus on themes from their favourite games, sports, or superheroes.

If you have access to tablets or apps like Procreate, they can be used in the art room for more tech driven art projects.

Older primary kids often like projects that focus on 3D modelling or graffiti-style projects. Encourage effort over perfection and create a safe space for creativity without judgment.

There has been a love of books featuring dragons for this age group, so try some dragon-based art projects. See the Bobble-head dragon, clay dragon or dragon painting project.

Keeping upper primary boys engaged in art class requires hands-on, relevant projects that tap into their interests.

Art Ideas to try out

Try creating Hybrid Creatures, combining two animals to make a mash up of features. Begin with two animals and have them draw a composite. For example, choose a Leopard and a shark or a scorpion and an eagle to create a new creature.

Find a stop motion app and create stop motion videos. Use Lego or model magic to create moveable figures.

Create some pixel art characters inspired by games like Minecraft.

Graffiti art, look at Banksy for inspiration or other contemporary street artists and create a work inspired by them.

Create a comic strip based on a superhero or sports star.

By incorporating these ideas, you can make art class more dynamic and engaging for grade 5 and 6 boys, tapping into their interests and encouraging their creativity.