Have you ever tried sun prints? They’re a easy and versatile art activity with young children, both for indoors and outdoors! You could go on nature walks, explore and collect different sizes, shapes and colors of leaves, sticks and flowers; you could portray your shadow, make patterns out of foam shapes or use pretty much…
Valentines
Mother’s Day Photo Canvas
Learning about kindness, friendship, empathy, feelings, strengths, giving, sharing and love are arguably some of the most valuable experiences in Early Childhood. When wondering about Mother’s Day (see last post) most children really wanted to let their mommies know how much they love them which led us to further wonder about “What is love and how…
Mother’s Day Banner
Mother love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible. – Marion C. Garretty Ever since seeing Meri Cherry’s lovely Mother’s Day Banners (head over to her website for a full list of materials and instructions) I wanted to give them a try myself, adjusting them slightly to suit a younger…
Magical Fairy Potions
Do your children love playing with water and anything else that involves pouring, scooping, dripping and stirring? Making ‘fairy potions’ provides some great sensory and fine motor opportunities. When stirring their concoctions children get to squeeze, pour, scoop, smell and explore properties like texture, flexibility and fluidity. Plus, it’s a perfect opportunity to welcome spring,…
Salt Dough Valentines
Salt Dough is simple enough for younger children to handle and offers many open-ended ways to sculpt or decorate with. In the past we have used Salt Dough to make holiday ornaments, heart magnets and necklaces as well as little sculptures. Simply provide your child with the supplies and invite them to explore and create with the…
Valentines String Art
Your heart is a horizon of endless possibilities. – Gemma Troy Surprise your loved one’s with a beautiful Mixed Media Wood Panel! Design your own Valentines (heart) pattern or create a customized name, word, or picture with this fun and easy project. Younger children might require a bit more assistance but they do love working with…
Styrofoam Print Valentines
For many children printmaking is one of the most mysterious and magical art techniques. It’s results are often surprising as well as rewarding. One printing techniques that can be mastered easily is styrofoam printing. Smaller children enjoy manipulating the foam and especially seem to like the kinesthetic feedback they are getting from rolling paint with the…
Potato Print Valentines
One of the simplest and most playful, open-ended printmaking techniques is potato printing. A few potatoes will guarantee hours of exploration, encourage play with patterns and layering colors. There is lots of room for variation and you can create little works of art – perfect for a Valentines themed project. Materials Small potatoes and a…