I have often found that parents can be a little reluctant to give their kids the tools to create art at young ages. Scissors cut more than paper, paint leaves stains, crayons and markers end up on walls. I get it! Here is an easy to clean up way to let your littlest ones (and bigger kids too) explore:
Watercolor is a great way to introduce creating art with kids! Since the medium (the material) is water based, it cleans up easily from every surface, including clothes and skin. Kid labeled watercolor is also non-toxic so even the littlest user can do so safely, even when they decide to take an accidental (or intentional) taste. The paint is cheap too! Get a tablet based pack at almost any store for just a couple of bucks. You also need a good paper. I splurge and go for watercolor paper that I pick up at your local hobby supply store. Thin papers, like computer or newsprint, warps and falls apart in the water.
Fun ways to encourage the creative and expressive spirit:
- Have kids pick an emotion and then paint the colors and lines they associate with that emotion. This is especially great when they are having a bad day and need to get their mood up or express their sadness. If your child is distracted by the opportunity to paint, it is also a great way to turn a minor tantrum into a productive expression session - just make sure they are calm enough to not toss your water cup.
- Have kids paint their dreams and then explain them. It is a wonderful way to hear about the great things they enjoy but is also a safe way for them to talk about their fears, as well as conquering them on paper!
Ages: Can be done as soon as they can handle a paintbrush, my kids started as soon as they could sit up and hold an object.
Materials Needed: Watercolor paints, Watercolor Paper or other thick paper, absorbent paper, paintbrush, and water dish
Clean-Up: Water and a cloth (and maybe a bath)!
No comments:
Post a Comment