Teaching 2 and 3 Year Olds

Playful Learning Ideas for Toddlers and Preschoolers

Easy Art Tips for Toddlers

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 Inside: Easy art tips for toddlers that work well at home or in the classroom.

Toddlers have energy. This we know. So the thought of handing them a paintbrush might be a bit scary.

 

(Insert visions of toddler running around the room with a paintbrush in hand, dripping everywhere.)

 

But with some different approaches to setting up the table, along with activities that toddlers love, art with toddlers can be downright pleasant!

 

Easy Art Tips for Toddlers

 

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Like everything else, I’ve paid close attention to what type of art works well with toddlers, how to set the area up, and how to keep a handle on the mess.

I will be upfront with you: I am okay with mess. I actually delight in seeing a toddler’s little fingers dipping into the paint, smearing it across the paper. I know how important it is for them to experience the different textures while they explore the materials. I don’t even mind glitter. (I just might have lost a few of you now. Sorry!) But I do take steps to assure that the mess is contained at the art table. And I work hard modeling how we use the materials and how they stay at the table. We even have baby wipes and towels handy and our toddlers learn how to use them.

I do hope these tips and activities will inspire you love inviting your toddlers to the art table!

Easy Art Tips for Toddlers

 

 Tip #1: Add dish soap to paint.

 

BUBBLE PAINT

 

Even though we use this washable tempera paint, we add a squirt of dishwashing liquid as an extra precaution.

 

Tip #2: Have a sink close by.

 
toddler art tips

 

From the very first day of school, we show our toddlers how to wash their hands with soap and water. We also keep a packet of baby wipes close by.

 

Tip #3: Save those box lids.

 

Toddler Painting with Balls

Box lids rock when it comes to toddler art! It confines the “mess”. If paint is involved, they will want to also paint the box lid. I promise you. We also love these art trays.

 

Check these out:

 

 

Tip #4: Cover the table. 

 

toddler art

 

If you want to protect your furniture, cover it with a cheap vinyl tablecloth, newspapers, or any kind of large recycled paper.

 

Sometimes we do our artwork directly ON that large sheet of paper for a mural.

 

Check this out:

 

 

Tip #5: Raid your kitchen drawers.

 

toddler painting activities

 

 
Kitchen gadgets are so fun with paint! I have been known to get giddy when I find the perfect gadget at Goodwill.

 

 
 

 Tip #6: Start saving paper tubes.

Little Blue and Little Yellow Activity

 
If you’ve been on Pinterest lately, you know there are so many ways to use paper tubes! The easiest way to use them is inviting your child to dip them into a shallow tray of paint. Stamp on paper. Yep, that easy!

 

Check these out:

 

Tip #7: Keep a stash of sponges and clothespins.

 

 

preschool spring art

 

 
Clip sponges to clothespins for a fun painting experience!

 

Check this out:

 

 

Tip #8: Use frozen food containers as paint holders.

 

 Easter Egg Art for Toddlers - Teaching 2 and 3 Year Olds

 

 
Just add paint and brushes and you are set! We wash and reuse ours over and over again.

 

Check this out:

 

 

Tip #9: Let them explore.

 

toddler painting activities

 
 Many toddlers love to get their hands involved. And yes, sleeves might also get involved. And the front of the shirt. This brings us back to #1 and #2.

 

 

 Tip #9: It’s okay if they don’t want to get their hands messy.

 

 Easy Kids Art with Freezer Bags

 

 
 Squirt paint on paper and place a piece of plastic wrap or waxed paper on top. Let them place their hands on top of this so that they do not actually get paint on their hands.

 

You can see this activity here.

 

Tip #10: It’s okay to go beyond the brush and paper.

 

 Foil Valentines Hearts

 

 Try painting on tin foil!

 Check this out:

 

Tip 11: Use sturdy paint cups and good toddler paint brushes. 

 

toddler art

 

Paint pots and easy-grip brushes work well with this age group. 

 

 
Let your toddlers have fun with whatever you choose. Give them time to explore!

 

 

 

More ideas for toddlers:

Toddler Alphabet Ideas     Looking for a fun way to strengthen toddler fine motor skills? Here's a fun water activity using basters!  The Best Books for Busy Toddlers

 

Easy Art Tips for Toddlers

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