Finger Paint, Thick Paint, and Water Color Paint

We love homemade gifts in our house.  Personalization makes any gift sweeter.  This Father's Day, Mason will be making his first Father's Day Card using the finger paint recipe below.  Not only is this a great way to get your child involved in celebrating holidays, but this is a money saver too.  By making your own paints, you can save a ton of money since most of the materials needed you already have on hand in your house.  I know kids go through paints quickly, so it only makes sense to make your own.  An added bonus is that you can experiment with many types of paint.  Try them out and have some fun!

Finger Paint

In addition to a great sensory experience, finger painting helps your child develop fine motor skills.

Duration of Activity: 10 minutes

Materials Needed:

• 3 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 cups cold water
• food coloring

Directions:

1. Add the water to the first two ingredients and cook over low heat
2. Stir constantly until the mixture is blended together
3. Remove from heat and add food coloring as desired.

**This is very watery when you begin, but be patient, it will thicken up.  Also, make sure you stir CONSTANTLY on low heat or lumps will form.

Thick Paint

Try this paint for a variation with texture!

Duration of Activity: 10 minutes

Materials Needed:

• 1 cup powered tempura paint
• 2 tablespoons wallpaper paste
• 1/2 cup liquid laundry starch

Directions:

1. Mix the paint and past together.  Add in the starch gradually until you reach the desired consistency. 

Watercolor Paints

 Save some money and make your own watercolor paints.  You can use empty egg cartons for paint tins.

 Duration of Activity: 10 minutes

Materials Needed:

• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon corn flour
• 1/2 teaspoon glycerin
• 2 drops food coloring
• 1 teaspoon water

Directions:

1.  Mix the vinegar and baking soda together.  Stir until it stops fizzing
2. Add the remaining ingredients.  Pour into molds and let harden.

Get more ideas like this from the The Everything Toddler Activities Book: Games And Projects That Entertain And Educate.