Show the child a vase, or the picture of one that is odd in shape, a water pitcher, or an Egyptian water bottle. Let him have a good look at the object, then take it away and let him describe it in detail, or, better still, have him draw it. Drawing is an excellent exercise for the development of muscular control and will-power.
In the same way let children observe the decorations of a building, the design of the windows, the design and style of the caps and bases of the pillars, and then draw them.
Older girls should be taught to observe so as to be able to describe accurately, and to draw in detail, suits and dresses; draperies and furnishings. This is also an excellent opportunity for color study. Boys can observe, describe and draw the outlines of boats, automobiles, and furniture, and anything that interests them. An excellent book to help the child in learning to draw is one entitled, "When Mother Lets Us Draw," by E. R. Lee Thayer.
The Game of Color Cards
To develop Observation and Memory of location, and relation of objects, get eight cards of any size, from one to three inches square, each of a different color. Colors of decided contrast are best. Number the cards on the back from one to eight. While the child is not looking arrange the cards in a double row, writing the number of each card on a slip of paper. The numbers should be in two rows and in the exact order in which the color cards are to be arranged. Call the child and let him look twenty seconds at these cards. The time can be shortened as the ability develops. Now mix the cards and let him try to arrange them as they were.
The one taking the test should do this by making a picture of the colors as they appear, holding them in mind as he arranges the cards. This is excellent practice for persons of all ages. Some can do it accurately at the first trial, others will have a poor record at the beginning, but as usual persistence will win and the ability will grow rapidly.
The Score.—The numbers, as you have previously written them on the slip, will give the original order. After they have been arranged by the one taking the test, turn the cards and check by the numbers. Each card in its correct place entitles him to one point. Any number can be decided upon as a game. The first one reaching that number of points by correct arrangement wins.
If colored cardboard is not handy the cards can easily be made by painting one side with a child's water color paints or by using crayolas.
The Game of Picture Cards
This game will develop observation and location. Make a series of eight, ten, or twelve cards about 2x3 inches in size, on one side number them as in the color game, and on the other side draw the outlines of simple objects, as a hat, tea kettle, shears, box, fan, book, owl, hen, dog, etc. These pictures can be cut from a paper and pasted on the cards; small picture cards, or picture postals may be used.