I love invitations to create with recycles. These invitations offer endless exploration for your preschooler, and not to mention; it also offers the caregiver a break. Being at home all day, this preschool activity can also be called, An Invitation to Give Me a Minute. But for traditional post purposes, we will call this an invitation to create with recycles.
RELATED: Love art as much as we do? Check out these 40+ easy painting activities for kids.
Why I encourage process art
There must be a balance between integrating the curriculum and allowing your preschooler to explore and discover concepts independently, using their creativity.
Try to incorporate process-oriented art rather than product-oriented art opportunities. We keep most of our supplies in our art cart.
Did you know that process-oriented art will:
- Encourage self-expression
- Explores concepts such as space, lines, form, shapes, patterns, design, and colors. (To mention a few!)
- Release imagination and creativity
RELATED: Have a bucket of pom poms? Check out these 20+ craft activities for pom poms.
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This art activity also allows your preschooler to practice:
- Fine motor skills
- Problem-solving – My preschooler was trying to stack the dry noodles
- Design decisions and composition
- Scissor skills
How to set up process art:
Contrary to what some believe about art, it has been the home base in our home to reset the energy. Art activities for kids create a peaceful environment where I can hear birds chirping and kids chattering.
Begin by offering your preschooler a variety of art supplies. We used recycled cardboard for the canvas, but never underestimate the potential of a paper tube.
Next, allow your preschooler to explore and create. Try not to direct or add input. This is a great activity for problem-solving. Remember, this is not product-oriented. You have no idea the outcome.
Once your preschooler has the foundation of their creation, you can then introduce paint. Invite younger siblings in for the collaboration.
Keep in mind that I had NO idea how this would turn out. But as your preschooler creates, it will evolve. This art invitation to create came out pretty cute!
Let’s talk about painting with kids
Why is painting at home so intimidating? I get it. The setup, the cleanup. Oy! Sure, it can make a mess in the early years, but I wrote a step-by-step guide about how to paint with kids to help provide some guidance.
When you feel more confident, head to these easy painting activities for kids. You’ll find creative painting ideas with (and without) paintbrushes. Clothing optional. (wink, wink)
Painting supplies we use:
We have used art supplies at home for over nine years now. Over time I have learned what I like, dislike, and need more of. These painting supplies are some we continue to order more on Amazon.
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Kid Paintbrushes
Ten chunky paintbrushes for little hands. Use with watercolors, liquid, and tempera paints.
Washable Paint
When we first began painting, we used this set. It makes a terrific starter set for those ready to paint but not quite all in.
Tempera Secondary Colors in a Tray
What makes these great is that they are faster to dry than liquid paint. I chose secondary colors, and they have other color palettes to choose from.
Let your child take the lead
Remember that process art is all about the child taking the lead. Share some recyclables with your preschooler, and hand over the scissors. (new to scissors? I’ve got you with this article on how to introduce scissors to kids)
Tour the recycle can, grab some paint, and get this process art party started!
FAQ
We store our art supplies in an art cart. Keeping supplies in one place helps children know where to put markers, crayons, scissors, and paper when they are finished using them. Keeping everything in one place also helps keep cleanup more productive.
Start with only a few supplies. I begin with markers, paper, and child scissors. Over time, you can add more art supplies, such as glue sticks, gel crayons, and watercolors. Too many supplies can be overwhelming on introduction.
This answer varies based on what age you are comfortable painting with kids. If you are ready but have questions, check out this post explaining how to paint with kids.
