Have you had this problem with your child's school or preschool?

Question

Has anyone else had a problem with a school using your child's art without your permission? Please give your oppinion about how you would feel if a school sold your child's art work, even if it was back to the parents for a fundraiser...

I work at a preschool, and the directors there have been "stealing" my children's art to sell at a fundraiser. When I became aware of this it bothered me to know they had not gotten permission from the parents to take their children's art. From my understanding of laws, once a person creates something, it is theirs (and in the case of a child, because they can not own anything, it becomes their parents) unless they specifically sign something (in the case of a minor, the parent) waiving their rights to the creation. From what I remember this is true even if the materials you use you do not own (but in this case the parents all buy the supplies to share with all the kids anyway). Please direct me to literature I can present to the directors...

Answer 1

This may have been covered when they enrolled in school. There might have been a form the parents sign releasing their creations. If you are that upset,make copies of the artwork and send them home with the kids.

Answer 2

Ofcourse it is a honor to have your child's artwork in a fundraiser, but when they are selling/profiting off your child, I am sure that is illegal.

Answer 3

that is just aweful, do they sell the original or copy it? i know it doesnt make a difference, but how could they sell the only copy of something so precious? i cant believe the nerve that some people have. You should sell something of theirs and then act like it was nothing. put a for sale sign in their car window or something. i know you cant but that would be funny.

Answer 4

I would first check your paperwork on file at the daycare. Most will have you sign a form at admission -- same in my daughter's elementary school asking for your permission to use your child's work, photo for any reason -- brochures, contests I mean there are so many things. If you signed this it is a release and they are able to do this. But please stop getting so worked up. I have a closet full of tissue paper octopus, ceramic cups and lumps that were supposed to be something -- not sure what and drawings and drawing and drawings. Most of these "thefts" I'm sure are all contributed by each child who will with pride be able to see someone other than their parents take an interest in their work which will give them a huge sense of pride. Chill out and if you do have such a serious issue with this, calmly ask the director to not do that anymore, and they will comply well they will have no choice but to comply. But it's not really that big of a deal and trust me let your child feel the accomplishment from others. It's a sweet gesture.

Answer 5

Check your contract, it may cover this.

Answer 6

to me thtas not fair your childs art holds memerioes