Helpful Tips & Tricks

Follow These Steps When Planning A Painting Activity

Choose Your Paint And Painting Tools

Purchase craft paint made specifically for children in a variety of colors. Check to make sure the paint is non-toxic. Look for these important indicators: AP certified emblem, certified ASTM D-4236 and the Kid Friendly Seal. Colorations paint products carry all 3!

Cover Your Surfaces, Take Precautions
And Be Prepared

Check to make sure the paint is appropriate for the child's age. You may wish to cover tables with disposable craft paper or newspaper for quick cleanups, or roll out white paper on the floor for group mural painting. Have plenty of paper towels or reusable shop rags within reach the entire time for spills or splatters.

Discuss Subjects And Ideas Before They Begin

Start by showing the children artworks that others have done in the past. This can get them talking about what they might want to paint. Show them different techniques that others have used and how they can use them.

Demonstrate How To Paint

Demonstrate how to properly hold a brush and apply paint to paper. Show them how to wash a brush and switch to another color, and that they can mix colors together to create new colors. Make sure they understand there are no mistakes—only artistic discoveries.

Encourage Them, And Have Fun

Children will enjoy painting and discussing their artwork with you and their friends. Make sure they take the time to look at what others are painting and from time to time ask the children to explain their painting to you and the class.