Getting your little one down and dirty with some non-toxic paints is not only fun, but good for their tactile sensory development.
Here is how:
- Create an “art area” in your kitchen, garage, outside, or even bathroom
- Stick the paper down so it doesn’t slip around
- Cover the floor with newspaper or an old shower curtain, to catch messes
- Dress your toddler in old clothes or daddy’s old shirt
- Let them have free reign. This is a great way to build independence
- Ensure all the paint pots and extra paper is close by
- Keep an old bath towel close, so you can wrap them up afterwards and pop them in the bath
- And, remember to display their works of art for everyone to see!
Why is messy play so important for growth?
- It matures the touch sense in their hands and fingers, which is needed for developing fine motor control later, such as the squeezing motion for pre-writing skills
- Sensory play helps with language development
- Their problem-solving abilities and reasoning skills will increase through this medium
- And, social interaction is learned, so letting little buddies come join in the messy play is great!
Here is our easy-to-make edible paint mix, available in our Groovy Adventurers book too.
Flour and Salt Finger paint recipe
1 cup of flour
½ cup of salt
¾ cup of water
Mix the flour and salt and then add water. Mix thoroughly. This paint is grainy, unlike other finger paints. As a result, the children will enjoy touching the artwork after it has dried.
