Sponge Painting

Description

Paint is a great way for a child to express him or herself and learn about shapes and colors.Using just two or three colors and various sponges can create a wide variety of effects.

Materials

• Tempera or Washable Paint
• Two or three brushes depending on number of colors used
• White Paper (construction, scrapbook, cardstock or even sketch paper)
• Sponge(s)
• Paint containers(small cups or plastic pallette
• Paper towels

Steps

• Select colors to be used. If child hasn't painted before, then just two color works fine.
• If it is not a new sponge, dampen very slightly.
• Have child paint directly on sponge with paint.
• Press onto paper making sure to help put some pressure on all areas for best print.

Tips and Suggestions

• Having a brush for each color makes it easier to monitor.
• Put just enough paint...too much paint can make you lose the texture.
• If making a new print, wash well and wring out most of the water, then "dry" a little more with a paper towel.

Other Ideas

• Use other types of sponges. We tried some from a Dollar Store that were circular and came 6 in a pack.
• Cut the recangular sponge into basic shapes: (circle, square, triangle, rectangle)
• If you have small sponges, use it like a paint brush.
• Print on tissue paper to make pretty gift wrap.

Educational Notes

• Toddler Activities involving use of paint are a great way to help develop fine motor skills as well as a great visual way to reinforce color recognition and even math concepts like counting.
• Ask your child which color he/she wants to use. Refer to the shape of the sponge being stamped.
• Count the number of stamped shapes or the colors used.