Most little kids love to finger paint. There is something about being allowed to get that messy that seems to be very attractive. So, let's take an afternoon finger painting activity and make it a little more educational. And don't worry if you don't have any finger paints at home, I have a great recipe for you!
The first thing to do is to give your child only two primary colors, let's say yellow and red. Have your child think about what color they believe they will create when they mix the two colors together.
As they are mixing the colors together with their hands talk to you child about primary colors and that by mixing primary colors you can make any other color. Let them know that any color that they create by mixing two primary colors together is a secondary color. Don't try to talk to your child as if you are giving them a lesson. If they are anything like my children they will rebel against that and try to tune you out. Make it conversational and in the background. You will be surprised by how much they will actually pick up.
Sometimes when my children finger paint I have them do it on a clear or white tray. They way they can still see the colors mix together well and we can also work on letters. After the child has mixed the colors together on the tray you can have them practice writing their letters with their fingers in the paint. Doing it on the tray makes the paint slide around easily. It also makes cleanup a snap. Just rinse the try off in the sink!
If you don't have finger paints at home here is an easy recipe.
Finger Paint Recipe
Ingredients:
1Ú2 cup flour
2 cups water
Food Coloring
Mix flour with a small amount of water and stir until there are no lumps remaining. Add remaining water slowly and cook on a medium heat until thick and shiny. Separate into small containers and add desired food coloring until the paint as a bright color. Be sure to let it cool before you use it!
Have Fun!
Lisa Braverman is the owner of Educational Toy Factory (http://www.EducationalToyFactory.com) and is dedicated to creating activities (http://www.educationaltoyfactory.com/parent_child_activities.htm) that are fun and educational for young children.
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