NAEA Statement on Coloring Books

Whereas, the discipline of art education can and does provide unique contribution to human development, and,

Whereas, the purpose of the NAEA is to promulgate and advance the field of art education for the young citizenry of the United States, and,

Whereas, school districts are escalating the use of coloring books, color fill-in workbook activities and other predesigned activities for young children and are utilizing and substituting such activities in the place of valid and appropriate art education processes and experiences, and,

Whereas, studies, research, and statements of philosophy have unequivocally discouraged the use of such pseudo-art activities in the educational setting.

It is hereby resolved:

That the National Art Education Association seek joint resolutions with other educational organizations, agencies and associations,

1. To create and promulgate a general awareness discouraging the use of such activities within the educational community and to the public at large.
2. To identify and recommend appropriate alternatives to schools and school systems who employ and utilize such activities.

In light of the increasing usage of coloring books, color fill-in workbook activities, and other predesigned materials that block originality, stifle imagination and creativity and limit intellectual growth, and become a substitute for valid and appropriate art education programs and procedures in elementary education, the NAEA therefore, calls for immediate, deliberate and permanent curtailment of the use of such methods, activities, and procedures.

Furthermore, the NAEA appeals to and calls upon the immediate and active support of the National Art Education Association Board of Directors, the Delegates Assembly, all affiliate groups, the Student Chapters, the state/province art education associations and the membership at large to seek, identify and implement strategies, plans and efforts to discourage the use of such activities in the schools of each state in our nation.