It’s Simple; Paint the Sticks for the Win

Paint the Sticks is genius.

Do you have one awake as the other(s) naps? You must try painting sticks.

I know the goal is to get everyone sleeping at the same time, however, my three-year-old dropped his nap a couple of months back. So while we could sit inside and watch tv the entire time, we also need to get out. Mostly for my sanity. 

Why? Because OWNERSHIP ALWAYS TAKES THE LEAD. 

Here, your preschooler is gathering their own tools. Why is this important? It means this activity will mean more to them because it was their decisions that pulled it all together. 

RELATED: These easy painting ideas for kids are terrific!

So, this activity is two-fold. 

1. Gather sticks (hello, movement!) 
2. Paint the sticks – fine motor, sensory, and self-expression. 

Yesterday as my boys gathered sticks to paint, they naturally began to discuss different attributes of the stick. 

Here, get this one! It is longer than the one you have. – Wow! Measurement! 

I don’t want this one. It’s too bumpy. – Adjectives and description words

This easy painting activity was incredible! 

So, Head Outside and Have Your Preschooler Collect Sticks.

• Control small muscles in your toddler’s hands
• Coordinate eye-hand movement    
• It is important to allow your toddler to practice eye-hand movement. 
• Fine motor practice now will help with bigger movements later such as writing and pencil grip.

What is an Invitation to Create? 

An invitation to create is any set up that allows your preschooler to organically create.

There are no rules or set of directions. This also can be called, Process Art.

Each finished product will look different, and many can be revisited again over time. The trick is to provide your preschooler with items of interest that will allow them to explore their creativity. 

You may also want to readrock painting activity for kids

Preschool Painting Tips and Supply List:

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• Washable paint
• Paintbrushes for kids
• Egg cartons make great painting cups.
• Sticks 

Preschool tip for holding a paintbrush

Draw a small dot on either side of your brush to help your preschooler know where to hold their fingers on the brush. 

Next, hop over and keep up the fine motor skills with these incredible ideas! 

What does your preschooler like to gather and paint?