educational art activities for preschoolers

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Hands on kids activities for hands on moms. Focusing on kids activities perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

10 Creative Art Activities for Preschoolers

Art Projects Preschoolers Resources 23 Comments

Art activities get much more intricate and focused when toddlers become preschoolers. Check out these 10 fun creative art activities for preschoolers!

Its amazing what a year means in these young ages!

Since Henry has been a preschooler, he has become a little more focused (believe it or not…). Which means the art projects, as well as other creative activities, we do can also be a little more focused.

And George is right behind him. Almost in the preschoolers category himself, he’ll be doing these art activities in no time!

Note: Big Art creative activities are great for toddlers and preschoolers that can’t or don’t want to sit still to create.

How is art different with a preschooler?

When they get a tad older, (think older preschooler age) everything changes. Fine motor skills improve, along with attention span and the ability to focus on the project at hand.

Of course, the age in which a child can do this will vary. So take a look at your toddler or preschooler and see where their own skills are at.

These are 10 activities that we’ve done that take just that tad bit more focus and understanding to do. I think they are perfect art activities for preschoolers.

Of course, there is usually a way to incorporate a toddler into the mix. I had both a preschooler (soon a kindergartner!) and a toddler myself.

Here’s some of our art activities that are perfect for preschoolers:

• Learn about mixing colors. Perfect for a hot day. Freeze some cubes of paint (in 2 or 3 of the primary colors) and take it outside in the sun to melt as they paint. When they run together see what colors it makes!
• Copy a masterpiece. Print out a masterpiece (such as Starry Night) and set it beside them to try to draw themselves. It’s quite impressive what they’ll find in the piece of art as they study it themselves to draw.
• Amp up tape resist art. Instead of just chunks of tape around on a piece of paper, or you doing it, have them tear a piece of tape to create a picture! Add details to the finished tape resist art.
• Add sensory to art.  We used sand, but really anything can be used in its place. Flour, salt, sugar, dirt, rice, tissue paper.
• Try pulling string to create art.  This one takes a little patience, understanding and coordination. But nothing preschoolers can’t handle in art activities. Its kind of magical to see what designs will happen!
• Rainbow sponge art.  Yes, toddlers can do this. But preschoolers can take the care it needs to actually make this a rainbow!
• Add special touches around the house.  Preschoolers are just getting into drawing. So design or draw a wrapping for everyday items such as a tissue box. What else can your little preschoolers spruce up with these art activities?
• Shave crayons and melt them!  It’s great for fine motor skills to make the crayon shavings. And the designs they make can be so cool (ahem, learn a little about color mixing in the process)!
• Use multiple painting techniques together  to create a piece of art. Preschoolers will have to follow directions to make it right. Along with having the patience to put it all together. But it’s really simple!
• Tie dye something together!  A t-shirt, a pillowcase, a sheet! They’ll love a special touch to wear or use that they can say they made! Try different tie-dye effects too. It’s all about the rubber-bands !

What’s your favorite art activity to do with your preschooler?

About Jamie Reimer

Jamie learned to be a hands on mom by creating activities, crafts and art projects for her three boys to do. Jamie needed the creative outlet that activities provided to get through the early years of parenting with a smile! Follow Jamie on Pinterest and Instagram !

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Reader Interactions

23 comments.

September 20, 2019 at 1:59 pm

Thank you sooooooo very much for your ideas that I hope I can soon say they are mine. This is my first year as a Pre-K Teacher and I’m so nerveous about what I’m doing. I know that it’s the process and not the product,, but having help really goes a long way. Thank you, Teacher Cherry

Morris says

September 14, 2018 at 12:17 am

Hi Jamie! such an amazing work was done by you! It’s not about art activity but also helps to develop a child’s mind.

Diana Morgan says

May 15, 2018 at 11:11 pm

I take the crayon shavings and sprinkle them on a sheet of wax paper, then lay a second sheet of wax paper on top. Then with a medium warm iron I run the iron over the wax paper long enough to melt the crayons, blending them together. After the wax paper is cooled I have the children cut a shape out of the center of 2 pieces of construction paper (such as a heart or butterfly) to form a window. Place the wax paper between the 2 pieces of construction paper showing the blended colors and glue together. You can put a magnet on the back or hang them in the window like a suncatcher.

Rachel says

May 17, 2018 at 4:44 am

What a creative idea! It sounds so pretty too! Thank you for sharing

Esther says

March 21, 2017 at 10:58 am

Hello Jamie, How are you and family doing? Thank you for all the activities you have been sending to us. God bless you and give you more wisdom and understanding. I have done some of the activities you sent to us. My child loves it. Will send you some of the pictures. Loves, Esther Thank you.

October 13, 2016 at 1:44 am

The interactive collage isn’t working for me. All I can do is pin it to Pinterest. Am I doing something wrong??

February 8, 2016 at 3:22 pm

I apcrapiete you taking to time to contribute That’s very helpful.

August 1, 2013 at 8:47 am

The interactive collage is great. There are some really fun activities included here. I would like to try the Painted String activity with our playgroup of nearly four year olds, Looks like creative, messy fun!

Jamie Reimer says

August 11, 2013 at 9:36 am

Thanks Amie! :) I’d love to see how it goes with a group.

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The Top 10 Educational Art Activities for Preschoolers

Art is one of the best ways for your preschooler to express themselves. While it may look like they are just making a mess they can actually be learning important motor skills or even something as simple as just letting things go if they make a mistake. Art will also teach your preschooler how to make a decision when they are picking out colors or what supplies to use.

In order to make the following crafts on this list your children will have to use their listening skills to follow along step by step. This is a skill your children will use throughout their life so why not let them learn it in a fun way?

The following craft ideas are pretty simple and fun to make. Most of the items used can be found around the house or they are very inexpensive if you have to buy them.  Don’t be afraid to let your kids use their own imaginations and make these ideas their own and most importantly have fun!

10. Paper Plate Instruments

  Make tambourines and other musical instruments from paper plates and simple decorative items! This perfect noise maker is made from basic materials and provides your preschooler with their very own musical instrument crafted from their own artistic hands!

Materials:​

• Paper plates
• Beads or dried beans
• Markers, glitter, glue, stickers, other embellishments

9. Painting with ice

Create paintings and other works of art with ice! This opportunity enables kids to swirl paints over assorted papers to create beautifully unique designs.​

Materials: ​

• Craft sticks or popsicle sticks
• Assorted papers
• Ice cube trays
• Liquid child-friendly paints

8. Hanging CD Ornament

Use old CDs and clean up unwanted clutter by saving this item from the trash bin and letting young children make their own sparkly works of art from it!

This fun recycling project helps kids to learn the value of recycling and provides them with a fun and entertaining experience at little to no cost.​

Materials: 

• Sparkly craft items like beads and sequins
• Fishing line or beading wire
• Child-safe scissors
• Craft-style glue
• Newspaper and other papers

7. Sparkle Bottles

This activity lets children make their own glittery water bottle full of sparkles and fun! Within the bottle are alphabet letters jumbled up to provide immense  fun for toddlers  who are trying to learn their letters.

• Alphabet beads or shapes
• Empty water or soda bottle
• Assorted glitter colors
• Sequins and other decorations
• Water and corn syrup
• Paper sheets
• Highlighter marker

6. Blown art

This activity provides an innovative and fun new way for your toddler to perfect their artistic and painting skills. Blow painting will have your toddler giggling as he creates unique splotches and shapes in an array of vivid hues.​

• Watered-down paint for a sheer effect
• Plain paper
• Bending straws
• Container with sides to hold liquid in

5. Sensory Dough

Much like homemade play-dough, this recipe makes use of common household items like baby oil or cooking oils. For the ultimate in cheap and entertaining play opportunities, sensory dough will have your toddler safely entertained while they pull and squish joyfully through this non-toxic and all natural dough.

• Baby oil – 1 cup
• Flour – 8 cups
• Plastic container
• Food colorings (assorted)

4. Colorful Rainsticks

Rainsticks are instruments that feature a hollow core and that are filled with small objects like rocks or beads to produce a variety of interesting noises and effects. Rainsticks make special noises when they are turned side to side and upside down and will have your child engrossed with the different effects they can produce with their changing hand motions.

• Colored markers
• Cardboard tube (from empty paper towel roll)
• Aluminum foil
• Small objects like dried beans or rocks
• Masking tape

3. Waxed paper art

All children love to color, whether it be on paper, books, or even on walls! Rarely are kids presented with opportunities to draw on alternative sources such as wax paper that offers impressively different results from coloring on regular paper.

Have your toddler-aged children cut out shapes and give them markers and crayons to decorate the shapes to their heart’s content. As they watch nearby, you or another adult can carefully iron the art to create a seamless melding of bright cheery colors that you can hang up in your child’s room or elsewhere.

• Iron (for adults)
• Pencil sharpener

2. Clothespin Caterpillars

This arts and crafts project enables your child to create their very own vibrantly hued caterpillar bug. Complete with small accessory eyes and pipe cleaner antennae, this lovable and whimsical caterpillar toy will be your young one’s favorite toy as he lovingly carries from room to room.

Assisting in promoting color recognition, and strengthening fine motor skills, this art project is both entertaining and educational.

• Elmers-style white glue
• Colored pom-poms in a variety of sizes and colors
• Pipe cleaners for antennae
• Googly eye decorations
• Clothespins

1. Melted Crayons  

This art project lets your kids pick out their favorite colors of crayons and lay them out in a way that looks good to them. Then they will learn about heat and how it melts the wax crayons. This project will strenthen their decision making ability as well as their fine motor skills. This is a fun craft that also looks good and is very simple to make.

Additional ideas for awesome arts and crafts activities for your toddler-aged child!

• Tape-resistant art  – Place pieces of tape on paper while children color over the paper and tape. Peel off the tape to expose uncolored areas that create a cool collage effect
• Color mixing activities  – Free paint into paint-cubes within ice tray compartments and bring them outside on a hot day to see the paint streak and run and create drippy works of art that will have children enthralled
• Sponge art  – Simply cut sponges into familiar shapes like circles, hearts, stars, and squares and have children dip sponges into their favorite colors and dab away to create their own sponge paint masterpiece
• Add sensory touches  to any arts and crafts projects to provide a multi-sensory experience that ups the educational ante. Anything with texture (such as grains of salt and sugar, tissue paper, and flour) are great sensory additions to art work
• Shave crayons  and melt them with your hairdryer as your little ones look on at awe while your crayons melt into a seamless rainbow of hues
• Try very simple cooking  or preparation idea with your little ones, by letting them do simple tasks like stirring batters and carrying utensils to the sink

There are so many fun art projects for preschoolers to create and they will have so much fun that they won’t even notice that they are learning. Through the use of color,  imagination, blocks, shapes, and ample opportunities for self-expression preschool is a time where a child’s brain is exposed to many of the important components of the world around them. Children can learn so much through art, self-expression, and creativity. ​

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Top 58 Creative Art Activities for Kids and Preschoolers

Unleashing creativity through art is a vital part of childhood development. This collection of creative art activities is designed to inspire young imaginations and foster self-expression in kids and preschoolers.

From innovative painting techniques to sculptural projects and crafting with recycled materials, these hands-on activities encourage exploration of colors, textures, and forms.

Not only do these artistic activities enhance fine motor skills and sensory development, but they also provide a joyful outlet for children to express their unique perspectives on the world.

1. Tie-Dye Art with Baby Wipes

This Tie-Dye Art with Baby Wipes activity involves using baby wipes as a medium for tie-dye creations. Students can apply different colored ink or fabric dye onto unfolded baby wipes, then fold or twist them to create unique tie-dye patterns.

Learn more: I Can teach my Child

2. Baking Soda Painting

Baking Soda Painting is a creative and engaging art activity that involves using a mixture of baking soda and water as a canvas for painting. To create baking soda paint, students mix baking soda with a small amount of water until it forms a smooth paste.

Learn more: Typically Simple

3. Watercolor Jelly Fish

This enchanting activity brings the beauty of underwater life to the canvas as kids craft their own vibrant jellyfish using the magic of watercolors.

Learn more: The Crafty Classroom

4. Marble Painting

Marble painting is a creative art activity where students use marbles to create unique and colorful paintings. To do marble painting, students place a sheet of paper inside a shallow container or tray. They then add drops of different colored paint onto the paper.

Learn more: Me for Less

5. Autumn Tree Q-Tip Painting

The Autumn Tree Q-Tip Painting activity involves using Q-tips as painting tools to create the vibrant foliage of an autumn tree. Students dip the Q-tips into fall-colored paints and apply them to a tree template, creating a textured and visually appealing artwork.

Learn more: Woo Jr

6. Tree Painting Using Cotton Balls

Try this whimsical adventure with Tree Painting Using Cotton Balls! Preschoolers, get ready to turn simple cotton balls into the brushes for your artistic masterpiece.

Learn more: Project with Kids

7. Kindergarten Weaving Project

A Kindergarten weaving project is a hands-on activity that introduces young students to the art of weaving using simple materials. In this project, students typically use materials such as paper, yarn, and craft sticks to create their woven designs.

Learn more: Meri Cherry

8. Kandinsky Squares with Concentric Circle Art

The Kandinsky Squares with Concentric Circle Art project involves creating geometric artwork inspired by Wassily Kandinsky’s abstract style.

Students use squares as a canvas to paint concentric circles, exploring color combinations and spatial relationships.

Learn more: Art Prep

9. Cardboard Tube Sculpture

The Cardboard Tube Sculpture project entails using cardboard tubes to create three-dimensional art pieces. Students can cut, shape, and arrange the tubes to form unique sculptures.

Learn more: Art Bar Blog

10. Snail Craft

The Snail Craft activity involves creating a snail-shaped art project using various materials. Students can use paper, cardboard, googly eyes, and other craft supplies to assemble their snail.

Learn more: Kindergarten Nation

11. Alphabet Painting

Alphabet Painting involves a creative and educational activity where students paint letters of the alphabet.

Learn more: Cassie Stephens

12. Castle Paper Art

Castle Art involves creating a visual representation of a castle using various art materials. Students can use paper, cardboard, paint, markers, and other supplies to construct their castle.

Learn more: Deep Space Sparkle

13. Color Wheel Flowers

Color Wheel Flowers is a creative art project where students use the concept of a color wheel to design and paint flowers. By selecting and arranging colors in a circular pattern reminiscent of a color wheel, students can experiment with color combinations and relationships.

14. Scribble Art

Scribble Art is a spontaneous and imaginative art activity where students create artwork by making random scribbles on paper or other surfaces.

Learn more: Capturing Parenthood

15. Clay Turtle

Clay Turtle is not just an art project; it’s a hands-on exploration of textures and shapes, sparking creativity in every twist and turn. So, grab that clay, let the sculpting magic begin, and watch your little turtles waddle into a world of artistic delight!

16. Build a Dino

Preschoolers, get ready to unleash your inner paleontologist as you build and design your very own dinosaurs. It’s not just crafting; it’s a journey into the land of the dinosaurs, where creativity meets imagination.

Learn more: Little Family Fun

17. Salt Paintings

Sprinkle some excitement into your preschool art time with Salt Paintings an electrifying activity that adds texture and pizzazz to your masterpiece! Preschoolers, grab your paintbrushes and explore the magic of salt as it transforms ordinary watercolor paintings into dazzling, crystallized wonders.

Learn more: Artful Parents

18. Foil-Printed Moon Craft

The Foil-Printed Moon Craft involves creating a lunar-themed artwork using foil and other art supplies. Students can design and shape the moon’s surface on paper using crumpled foil, exploring texture and form.

Learn more: A Dab of Glue

19. Cat Craft

The Cat Craft involves creating a cat-themed art project using various materials. Students can use paper, cardboard, paint, markers, and other craft supplies to craft their feline creation.

Learn more: Arty Crafty Kids

20. Paper Roll Scribblers

It’s not just about making marks on paper; it’s a journey where every twist and turn of the roll creates whimsical patterns and designs.

Learn more: The Craft Rain

21. Exploding Hearts

The Kindergarten Exploding Hearts activity involves a creative art project where students design and craft hearts that seem to “explode” with vibrant colors. Using materials like paper, paint, and possibly glitter, children can create dynamic and visually engaging heart shapes.

Learn more: Elements of Heart Room

22. An Alphabet Yarn Craft

In this activity kids craft engaging letters with glue and string. Once completed, these can be ideally displayed in alphabetical order for additional practice with letters.

Learn more: Premeditated Leftovers

23. Crumpled Paper Art for Kids

Crumpled Paper Art for Kids is a creative and hands-on activity where children crumple paper to create unique and textured artwork. Students can experiment with different colors, sizes, and shapes of crumpled paper to form imaginative compositions.

Learn more: Buggy and Buddy

24. No Mess Art

No Mess Art brings the joy of colors without the cleanup stress, making it a perfect blend of creativity and convenience. So, grab those Ziplock bags, let the color exploration begin, and watch your preschoolers create a mess-free gallery of artistic wonders!

Learn more: Powerful Mothering

25. Balloon Stamping

Balloon stamping is a creative art technique where students use balloons to stamp patterns and designs onto paper or other surfaces. By dipping the inflated balloons into paint and then pressing them onto the canvas, students can experiment with colors and shapes.

Learn more: I HeartsnCrafts

26. Painting with Yarn

Painting with yarn is a creative art technique where students use yarn to create textured patterns and designs on paper or other surfaces. By dipping the yarn into paint and then dragging or pressing it onto the canvas, students can experiment with colors, shapes, and lines.

27. Shape Garland

Transform your space into a celebration of shapes and colors with the Shape Garland a delightful art activity that turns simple shapes into a whimsical decoration!

Learn more: Nurture Store

28. Process Art Craft Stick Rainbow

Process Art Craft Stick Rainbow celebrates the joy of creativity and self-expression, making each rainbow as unique as the little artist creating it. So, grab your craft sticks, let the colors flow, and watch your preschoolers craft a rainbow of pure artistic delight!

Learn more: Pre-school Powol Pockets

29. Giant Crayon Craft

Show your inner artist on a larger-than-life canvas with the Giant Crayon Craft an exciting adventure that transforms ordinary materials into colossal bursts of color!

Learn more: Elements Heart Room

30. Paint with Bubble Wrap

Get ready to dip, press, and pop your way to colorful masterpieces. It’s not just about painting; it’s a tactile journey where bubble wrap becomes a tool for exploring texture and patterns.

Learn more: 123homeschool 4me

31. Corn Painting

Engage young minds in a colorful adventure with Corn Painting! This preschool shape activity combines the joy of artistic expression with the tactile experience of painting using corn as a unique tool.

Learn more: Fun a Day

32. Sweet Potato Stamps

Unlock creativity with Sweet Potato Stamps in this delightful preschool shape activity! By carving various shapes into sweet potatoes and dipping them into bright, washable paints, young artists can explore a world of patterns and forms.

Learn more: Sunny Family Da

33. Roll Painting with Autumn Materials

Roll painting with autumn materials is a creative art activity where students use objects associated with fall to roll and create textured patterns on paper.

By rolling items like acorns, pinecones, or leaves dipped in paint, students can experiment with colors and shapes, adding a seasonal touch to their artwork.

Learn more: Still Playing in School

34. Messy Art

Through finger painting, splattering, and squishing, children not only discover the beauty of different shapes but also enhance their sensory experiences and fine motor skills.

Learn more: How We Learn

35. Oil and Water Painting

Oil and water painting is a creative art technique where students use the interaction between oil and water to create unique and vibrant designs on paper. By applying watercolors to a surface and then adding drops of oil on top, students can observe the intriguing patterns that emerge as the two substances repel each other.

Learn more: Stay at home Educator

36. Fly Swatter Painting

Fly swatter painting is a dynamic and creative art activity where students use fly swatters as painting tools to create expressive and textured artwork. By dipping the fly swatters into paint and then swatting them onto paper or canvas, students can experiment with colors, patterns, and movement.

Learn more: Little Bins for Little Hands

37. Coffee Filter Rainbow Craft

The Coffee Filter Rainbow Craft is a creative and hands-on art project where students use coffee filters to create vibrant rainbow designs. By using watercolor markers or liquid watercolors, students can add color to the coffee filters, and when water is applied, the colors blend and spread, creating a beautiful rainbow effect.

Learn more : Little Bins for Little Hands

38. Paper Marbling with Shaving Cream

Paper marbling with shaving cream is a creative and sensory art activity where students use shaving cream and liquid watercolors to create unique and marbled patterns on paper.

39. Make Sun Prints for Outdoor STEM

This activity involves creating LEGO sun prints outdoors, combining art and science to explore light and shadows. Students build LEGO structures on sun print paper exposed to sunlight, producing silhouettes as a result of a chemical reaction.

40. Colorful Painting with Ice Cubes

Colorful painting with ice cubes is a sensory art activity where students use frozen, colorful ice cubes as unconventional paintbrushes. By applying the melting ice cubes to paper or canvas, students create vibrant and dynamic artwork with swirling patterns

41. Nature Weaving with Found Object Art

Nature weaving with found object art is a creative activity where students use natural materials and found objects to weave intricate designs. By incorporating items like twigs, leaves, and feathers into a weaving structure, students blend art and nature.

42. Pinecone Painting

Pinecone painting is a creative art activity where students use pinecones as painting tools to produce textured and nature-inspired artwork. By dipping the pinecone scales into paint and pressing them onto paper or canvas, students can explore different patterns and designs.

43. Easy Paper Sculptures for Kids

Creating easy paper sculptures for kids is a hands-on art activity that encourages creativity and fine motor skills. Children can use simple materials like colored paper, scissors, and glue to craft three-dimensional sculptures.

44. Cool Paper Towel Art for Kids

Cool Paper Towel Art for Kids is a creative and accessible activity where children can use paper towels as a unique canvas for artistic expression. By applying watercolor markers or diluted food coloring onto folded or unfolded paper towels, kids can create vibrant and dynamic designs as the colors spread and blend.

45. Super Fun Salad Spinner Art

Super Fun Salad Spinner Art is an entertaining and creative activity for kids that involves using a salad spinner as a unique tool for creating dynamic and abstract artwork. By placing paper and paint inside the salad spinner and giving it a spin, children can observe the mesmerizing patterns and designs that emerge.

46. Paint A Color Wheel with Skittles Paint

Painting a color wheel with Skittles paint is a creative and engaging activity where students use Skittles candies to explore color mixing. By arranging Skittles in a circle on a plate or paper and adding a drop of water to each candy, students can observe the colors dissolve and blend, creating a vibrant edible color wheel.

47. Snow Paint Spray for Winter Art

This unique outdoor adventure allows children to spray colorful water onto snow, creating beautiful and temporary winter art. Not only does it introduce them to basic shapes and colors, but it also encourages outdoor play and exploration.

48. Snowflake Art for Preschool

Let creativity sparkle with ‘Snowflake Art for Preschool’ an enchanting activity that brings the magic of winter indoors! Children can explore shapes and patterns by crafting unique snowflakes using various materials.

49. Paint Splatter Art for Kids

Paint splatter art for kids is a lively and expressive activity where children use various tools to create dynamic and colorful splatters on paper or canvas. By flicking or tapping paintbrushes, toothbrushes, or other implements, kids can experiment with different techniques to achieve unique and abstract designs.

50. String Painting

String painting is a creative art technique where artists use strings to create unique and textured designs on paper or canvas. By dipping strings into paint and laying them onto the surface, artists can pull, drag, or lift the strings to form intricate patterns.

51. Colorful Water Drop Painting

Colorful water drop painting is a captivating art activity where individuals use droppers or pipettes to release colorful water onto paper or absorbent surfaces. By dropping various watercolor hues onto the canvas, participants can observe the blending and diffusion of colors, creating vibrant and abstract designs.

52. Water Gun Painting

Water Gun Painting is a delightful and refreshing way for preschoolers to express themselves artistically while enjoying the excitement of water play. Watch as each burst of color becomes a joyful expression of creativity in this lively and engaging art adventure!

53. Paint Blowing

Paint blowing is a dynamic and creative art technique where artists use air to disperse liquid paint across a surface. By blowing air through a straw or other tool, individuals can create abstract and visually interesting patterns.

Learn more: How we Learn

54. Rainbow Lighting

Rainbow lighting refers to the use of various colored lights to create a vibrant and dynamic display resembling the colors of a rainbow. This lighting technique is often employed in artistic installations, stage productions, or decorative settings to evoke a visually striking and immersive experience

Learn more: Taming Little Monsters

55. Spaghetti Paintbrushes

Children can explore shapes and colors by using cooked spaghetti as paintbrushes, creating textured and unique masterpieces.

Learn more: Kitchen Table Classroom

56. Spiderweb Sun Catcher

Craft a web of wonder with ‘Spiderweb Sun Catcher’ an engaging and artistic preschool activity that transforms simple materials into beautiful decorations! Children can explore shapes and patterns by weaving yarn or string around a hoop to create a spiderweb design.

Learn more: Happy Toddler Playtime

57. Shower Curtain Painting

Children can explore shapes and colors as they paint vibrant designs on a large shower curtain. This hands-on experience not only introduces young minds to basic shapes but also fosters gross motor skills and encourages collaborative play.

Learn more: Tinker Lab

58. Embossed Tin Leaves

Embossed tin leaves involve a creative craft where students use tin foil or thin metal sheets to create textured and decorative leaf shapes. By pressing the metal against various textured surfaces or using embossing tools, students can add intricate patterns and details to mimic the veins of leaves.

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50 Engaging and Creative Painting Activities for Preschoolers

By ProjectswithKids

These painting activities for preschoolers will have kids exploring different art materials, new techniques, and having fun! There are process art ideas and holiday and seasonal painting ideas, you are sure to find some art projects that your preschoolers will love to make.

We love exploring different painting techniques. Take a look at my collection of painting ideas for kids for more fun and creative art projects for kids of all ages to try!

We love creating and exploring with different art supplies and techniques. If you are looking for more art projects to try, take a look at our ultimate collection of amazing art projects for kids of all ages!

Engaging and Creative Painting Activities for Preschoolers

Take a look below for awesome painting ideas that preschoolers will love to explore and create! I have organized the project ideas by season to make things easier to find. The first section includes ideas you can use any time of the year.

Painting Ideas for Anytime

Try one of the ideas below for a painting activity you can do any time of the year.

5 Easy Watercolor Techniques for Kids That Produce Fantastic Results

These easy watercolor techniques for kids are perfect for all ages and offer endless possibilities for creativity and fun. Kids will love exploring these watercolor painting ideas that produce magical and unexpected results!

Easy Galaxy Spin Painting Art Project for Kids

This galaxy spin painting art project is out of this world! Spin art is such a fun process art technique that kids of all ages love.

ALPHABET CRAYON RESIST - hello, Wonderful

Combine letter practice and painting with this colorful alphabet art project.

Mess Free Painting: Kid's Initial Wall Art

These kid’s initial wall art pieces are easy enough for all ages, mess-free, and make beautiful kid’s room decorations or gifts for family!

How to Make Name Art with Pointillism

Sneak in a little name recognition, letter formation and fine motor skills with this Pointillism-inspired name art!

Shake Painted Rock Snail Craft

This rock painting idea gets kids active and is virtually mess free!

Van Gogh Sunflower Painting with Spices

Paint a picture that smells as good as it looks by using spice paints to make a Van Gogh inspired sunflower painting.

Sponge Shape Paintbrushes DIY Painting Ideas

Shape sponge paintbrushes lend themselves to fun ideas for preschoolers.

Mixing Paint Colors Preschool Activity

Discover the results of mixing paint colors in an art activity that blends with science.

Bubble Wrap Print Painting

Printing with bubble wrap is a great way to explore texture and patterns with young kids.

Easy Balloon Painting Ideas for Kids

Try a fun twist on regular painting with this balloon painting activity for kids. This is a great sensory project and easy to set up.

Painting on Foil – Easy Art Activity for Kids

Try painting on foil for a fun sensory twist!

How to Upcycle and Reuse Old Books to Make Beautiful Bookmarks

Children can easily turn pages from old books into brightly colored bookmarks.

Bounce Paint Process Art for Kids

Take this art project outside for a fun and unique painting experience!

Yarn Painting for Kids

A fun yarn painting activity for even really young kids with stuff you probably already have around the house!

Mess-free Art for Kids, Improved!

Try this mess-free painting idea for an art project that is easy to clean up!

Finger Painting Prints

Engage your child in a sensory activity as you try this engaging spin on finger painting.

Fire Truck Craft With Flame Painting for Kids

Use a mixed media approach to make this fun fire truck craft!

Fall painting projects

Take a look below for fall and Halloween painting ideas kids will love.

Cookie Cutter Process Art Made into Fall Placemats

Turn cookie-cutter process art into beautiful fall placemats for your holiday table. This fall craft is a perfect project for preschoolers that older kids will also enjoy creating. A great handmade gift idea!

Autumn Tree Painting with Cotton Balls

Create this gorgeous autumn tree painting using cotton balls. Kids will love creating this fall craft with all of the beautiful colors of autumn! Includes a branch template to make it easier for preschoolers.

Apple Tree Painting with Cotton Balls

Kids will love painting with cotton balls to create this fun apple tree painting! The perfect fall craft for kids of all ages. Free branch printable included.

Beautiful Watercolor Poppy Art Kids can Make

This watercolor poppy art is such a fun and easy art project for kids. Preschoolers will use easy watercolor techniques and practice their cutting skills! A great Remembrance Day craft or fall flower art project. Printable template included.

Pumpkin Spin Painting Halloween Art Project for Kids

This pumpkin spin painting is such a fun activity for kids! Super easy and a great Halloween art project for kids of all ages. Free printable templates included.

Watercolor Resist Surprise Ghost Painting

Kids will love watching their ghost pictures appear when they use this easy watercolor resist technique. A fun and simple non-scary Halloween craft.

Painted Rainbow Leaf Craft

A colorful take on a classic preschool craft, painted leaves!

Painting Leaves

Use bright bold colors to paint real leaves for a fun nature art project idea.

Pom Pom Fall Leaf Painting Craft

Kids can use pom poms held by clothespins to make fun painted trees with colorful leaves in this Pom Pom Fall Leaf Painting Craft.

Winter Art Project Ideas

Take a look below for creative winter, New Year's, and Valentine's Day art ideas.

Winter Scrape Painting with Narwhal Printable

This winter scrape painting activity is a fun and super easy process art project that kids in preschool and beyond will love! Free narwhal printable template included.

Winter Tree Painting with Cotton Balls

Kids will love creating this cute & easy winter tree painting using cotton balls. Add in a fingerprint red bird for an extra fun winter touch. Free printable branch template included.

Colorful Kid Made Christmas Cards with Coffee Filters

Use coffee filters and watercolors to make these colorful Christmas cards. Printable template included.

Christmas Ornament that Toddlers Can Help Make

Turn finger painting into a giftable ornament with this simple Christmas craft.

Star Spin Painting Easy New Year's Art Project

This star spin painting is a super easy and fun New Year's art project that kids will love! Make spin art stars and turn them into a unique New Year's Eve banner as part of your holiday decor.

Easy Heart Spin Painting for Valentine's Day

Spin painting hearts make the perfect Valentine's Day art project for kids. Kids will have a blast spinning their hearts and making cool patterns. An easy project for preschool kids to make on their own and an awesome process art project for kids of all ages!

Easy Q-Tip Painted Heart Art for Kids to Make

This q-tip painted heart art is so easy and fun for preschoolers to make! A great Valentine's Day craft that is also great for working on fine motor skills.

Mixed Media Heart Art Project for Kids

Kids will love using watercolors and paper to create this beautiful heart art project that is perfect for Valentine's Day and Mother's Day. Easy watercolor techniques make this a perfect art project for preschoolers!

Heart Art Salt Painting Project

Use salt, glue, and watercolors to make gorgeous heart art.

Easy Heart Art Painting for Preschoolers

Try out a fun new painting technique to make this heart art project.

Spring Painting Ideas

There are so many fun and colorful painting ideas for spring and Easter! Take a look below for some project inspiration.

Easy Watercolor Flowers for Kids to Make

These easy watercolor flowers are an excellent beginner watercolor project for preschool-aged children. It's also a great project to practice scissor skills! Free printable template included.

Cherry Blossom Painting with Cotton Balls

Kids will love using cotton balls to create this gorgeous cherry blossom painting! A wonderful spring art project for preschoolers and beyond. Free printable branch template included.

Create Simple Watercolor Easter Egg Art with Stickers

Use a simple watercolor resist method to create this gorgeous watercolor easter egg art with kids. So simple and fun for kids of all ages! Free printable easter egg template included.

Process Art Scrape Painting with Bunny Silhouettes

Scrape painting is a super fun process art activity that kids will love! Use beautiful spring colors to make these bunny silhouettes that are the perfect art project for spring or Easter. A great painting activity for preschool-aged kids and beyond. Free printable bunny template included.

Colorful Q-tip Easter Egg Painting

A fun q-tip Easter egg painting activity that will keep preschoolers engaged and having fun creating colorful patterns! Printable Easter egg template included.

HANDPRINT RAINBOW PAINTING

Handprint rainbow painting is a fun sensory art for kids. Get hands-on with paints and explore colour mixing and blending!

Paint a rainbow sponge painting art

Create a perfect rainbow by adding rainbow coloured paint to a sponge.

Easter Egg Potato Stamping w/ Printable Template

Easter Egg Potato Stamping is a classic kids’ activity and the perfect way to use up potatoes that are past their prime!

Summer Art Activities

Take a look below for some summer painting inspiration!

Colorful Q-tip Painted Dragonfly Craft

This q-tip painted dragonfly craft is a fun and easy summer activity perfect for preschool-aged kids! This is a wonderful and relaxing painting project that is also great for working on fine motor skills. Free printable dragonfly template included!

Orange Tree Cotton Ball Painting

Kids will love creating this orange tree cotton ball painting with gorgeous shades of green and then stamping on oranges using a cork. Free printable template included!

Spin Painting Canada Day Craft

Kids of all ages will have tons of fun spin painting and making cool patterns with this Canada Day craft. An easy project for preschool kids to make on their own and an awesome process art project for kids of all ages! Click through to get your free maple leaf template.

Rose Art Watercolor Painting Project

Invite children to paint a rose, with watercolors and a black resist medium, to create gorgeous faux stained glass rose art.

Everything You Need to Know About Squirt Painting

Use spray bottles to make beautiful, crazy pieces of art!

Fireworks Salt Painting Craft

Celebrate New Year or the 4th of July with this fun fireworks salt painting.

I hope you enjoyed looking through all of the amazing painting activities for preschoolers and are inspired and excited to give some a try!

More art projects kids will love

Awesome Chalk Pastel Art Kids will Love to Create

The Most Fun and Creative Watercolor Painting for Kids

Some of my favorite arts & craft supplies

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Art Activities for Preschoolers

Find the best art activity ideas for your art and thematic units and lesson plans from Early Learning Ideas.  From process art activities for your preschool or pre-k lesson plans to open-ended art projects at home, your kids will love these fun art activities for preschoolers. Check out the ideas below for your preschool and pre-k kids.

Make Name Art with Name Coloring Pages

How to Paint with Bubbles

Create a Blow Painting with Straws

How to Paint with Spray Bottles

Squirt Gun Painting

How to Paint with Feathers

Painting with Balls: Combine Art & Science

Easy Art for Preschooler: Paint with a Flyswatter

Easy Art for Kids: Pool Noodle Art

Painting Activities to Promote Fine Motor Skills

Easy Art for Kids:  Assemble an Art Box

Art Activities with Spider Webs

The Best Cutting and Pasting Activities for Preschoolers

25 Activities to Help Preschool Kids Build Scissor Skills

Fun and Creative Torn Paper Art Ideas for Your Preschoolers

What’s The Difference Between Art and Craft in Preschool?

Make Your own Paint Brush for Kids Art

Looking for more creative ideas for your preschoolers? Check out these fun and creative craft activity ideas .

Free Art Preschool Lesson Plans

Get ready to explore a treasure trove of preschool art ideas that will add a splash of color and creativity to your art-themed preschool curriculum. We’ve compiled all these brilliant ideas into a comprehensive bundle of free preschool art lesson plans .

With a focus on engaging books, sensory-based art experiences, and fun-filled math and science activities, our aim is to inspire young minds to embrace their inner Picasso. So let’s gear up to sprinkle some artistic magic in our preschool classrooms!

Check out our comprehensive collection of preschool lesson plans with over 60+ themes!

Art Activities for Preschoolers with Aer Lesson Plans

Do you have a budding artist in your midst? If your preschoolers are anything like mine, all they have to do is see fun art materials out on the table, and they are ready to dive right in!

Why not infuse that excitement and interest into a whole theme! An art theme for preschool is perfect any time of the year and can be extensive or as simple as you need it to be! Incorporate learning about famous artists , different art techniques , and/or process art.

We’ve also put together the ultimate guide to process art so you can help your preschoolers focus on oral language and art skills in a completely individual and unique way!

The Ultimate Guide To Process Art

Preschool Lesson Plans Themes

These lesson plans for preschoolers are just one theme in a set of over 40 that will become a part of my free Learn At Home Preschool Lesson Plans.

Grab the whole bundle which includes over 46 different learn at home preschool lesson plan themes, all wrapped up in a convenient bundle!

Preschool Activities for an Art Theme

We’ve chosen engaging art activities that cover academic areas and invite preschoolers to experiment with different mediums, read about art, and practice colors too! Children learn fine motor skills, build their attention span, and develop creativity with every piece of art.

Literacy Activities for an Art Preschool Theme

Tape Resist Art with Letters or Names – Staple a few pieces of black construction paper together to make a booklet. You want twice as many front to back pages in the booklet as the name of your preschooler. Draw out the letters of the child’s name on contact paper. Be sure to draw out the letters in big blocks, on the  paper side  of the contact paper (so, not on the actual plastic sticky side). Next, cut the letters out and place them like giant stickers in the booklet. Invite your preschooler to paint, use oil pastels, or bright crayons to color over the page. Once the paint is dry, you can peel off the contact paper to show the letter resist !

Learn Colors with Elmer – Go to YouTube and read Elmer by David McKee. After reading, invite your preschooler to stamp their own Elmer using sponges cut into squares and dipped into colorful paint. Your preschooler will love making their own Elmer art!

Art Themed Picture Books!

One of the best ways to teach preschoolers about any theme is by hand-selecting the highest quality picture books! This is a book list for our best-loved picture books for an art theme.

• Hardcover Book
• Vere, Ed (Author)
• English (Publication Language)

• Manning, Mick (Author)

• Hodge, Susie (Author)

• McClave, Amy (Author)
• 25 Pages – 08/19/2024 (Publication Date) – Independently published (Publisher)

• O’Connor, Jane (Author)
• 32 Pages – 03/18/2002 (Publication Date) – Grosset & Dunlap (Publisher)

• Anholt, Laurence (Author)

Math and Science Activities for an Art Theme in Preschool

Shape Art – Grab some kraft paper or large construction paper and draw shapes all over. Invite your preschoolers to paint, color, or stamp the shapes to create their own unique shape art masterpieces.

Ice Cream Cone Fingerprint Counting – How many colorful flavors would you like? Draw cones on a piece of construction paper and invite your preschooler to add fingerprint ‘scoops’ on top and count how many fingerprints they made. Write that number on the cone. Use different colors for different flavors!

Oil and Water Science Art – Using liquid watercolor and vegetable oil, this art technique uses science to see how the two liquids resist each other and end up creating a marbling effect on paper!

Playful Preschool Learning Activities for an Art Theme

Playdough Sculpting – Grab (or make) some playdough and practice making a 3D animal or object. Invite your preschooler to come up with an idea and work together to sculpt and create!

DIY Nature Crown – Head outside and find some natural art! Invite your preschooler to gather some favorite nature/art materials and add them to your nature crown . You can use liquid glue, contact paper, or the adult can use hot glue to add the items.

Doodle Art – Using wavy or straight lines, doodle all over a piece of paper. Make sure to cross over some lines to create shapes within the picture. Invite your preschooler to try and then color the different sections different colors! This process art activity leads to beautiful and unique art!

Social-Emotional Activities for an Art Preschool Theme

Mistakes Can Be Beautiful – Go to YouTube and read the story, Beautiful Oops by Barney Saltzberg. Invite your preschooler to make predictions about each page and discuss how something that went “wrong” turned into something quite lovely. Share about a time when something didn’t go as planned in your own life. Was there a way to look at that event in a different way? Sometimes it’s all a matter of perspective.

Emotion Puppets – Create emotion puppets using craft foam, googly eyes, and popsicle sticks. After making different faces to model different emotions, hold up a popsicle puppet and ask your preschooler what emotion each puppet is feeling. Can your preschooler make the same face to show the emotion? Grab a mirror and have fun making faces together to show each emotion – make sure to exaggerate each expression for even more fun! Read the story, The Emotions Book by Liz Fletcher and use your emotion puppets to find the various feelings in the story.

Just Plain Fun Art Activities for Preschoolers

Balloon Painting – Inflate colored balloons (think rainbow) just enough for little hands to hold onto. Draw a rainbow on a piece of paper and put some rainbow colored paints on a plate. Dip the balloons in the paint and make rainbows !

Salty Rainbows – Using liquid watercolors and water droppers, your preschooler can create a colorful art project with an unusual medium – salt! Simply lay out the salt and squeeze the colored dye over top and watch the colors spread out.

Pulled String Art – With household supplies like a book, paper, string, and paint, you can create abstract and unique string art .

Get Online Activities for an Art Theme

Online Story – Go to YouTube and listen to the book, Maybe Makes an Artist by Carr Fullager. After reading, invite your preschooler to find their own ‘maybe’. Invite them to come up with a list of ‘maybe’ art ideas. No idea is a bad idea! Using any arts and craft materials they like, create an art session based on creativity and fun!

Primary Colors Song – Learn the three primary colors , red, yellow, and blue with this song and video and watch how mixing the primary colors make new colors!

We Call it Art Song – Get up and moving with this fun art song about kids painting and being creative!

Preschool Art Materials

Sometimes (not always), what turns a great preschool theme into an exceptional one is having some extra special materials specific to that theme. These are some of the __ toys and activity kits I like to use with my preschoolers.

• 100 LOOSE SHEETS OF PRACTICE WATERCOLOR PAPER – Don’t Settle for 20, 40 or even 60 Sheets. This…
• SPECIFICATIONS: Each Sheet is 9″x12″, 190 GSM White Color with a Hint of Blue/Grey Tint; Acid Free,…
• VERSATILE DOUBLE SIDED PAPER – One Side is Smooth and the other with a Wonderful Subtle Texture, The…

• 4 TEXTURES FOR LITTLE PICASSOS — These paint texture tools feature grippy, plastic handles with 4…
• JUMBO SIZE = BETTER GRIP — At approximately 5.5″ long and with a tapered handle diameter of up to…
• CREATE ARTISTIC EFFECTS — Doodle, swirl, dot and twirl! Children love to add exciting patterns and…

• Cooler Crafts – Broaden your creative palette with 330 exciting, colorful yards of masking tape….
• Bigger and Brighter – Worried about running out of tape before you’re finished? 990 feet of…
• A Full Palette of Uses – Get creative with where you put your colored painters tape every day! Use…

• Prevent spills and messes with these dual-lid multi-colored No Spill Paint Cups
• Pour paint in and snap on the outer air tight lid to keep paint fresh in between art sessions
• Brightly color coordinated colored lids allow you to easily identify the color of the paint inside

• Vibrant And Bright – Our 12 basic colors paint sticks is washable, can be overlapped and mixed, with…
• Easy Drawing And Quick-drying – The solid paint sticks contain beeswax that makes glide as smooth as…
• Convenient And No Messy – Can be out of the core easily by rotating, telescopic design is more…

• 30 ASSORTED COLORS- this vibrantly colored mosaic square tissue set comes with 30 wide range of…
• PRE-CUT SQUARE TISSUE- each square tissue paper was pre-cut into 2inch*2inch/5.08cm*5.08cm. They are…
• HIGH-QUALITY MATERIAL- these colored mosaic square shapes are made from soft tissue paper, easy to…

Get Your Free Art Lesson Plans Here

Want to include these art activities in your lesson plans? Ready to grab your free printable lesson plans with all these art theme activities for preschoolers?! No problem. I’ve made a printable for you. Just fill out the form below and it will be sent to your inbox.

We’ve put together a perfect convenience bundle with over 45+ learn at home plans with themes ranging from apples to arctic animals and everything in between. Grab the learn at home preschool lesson plans bundle today!

I’m Sarah, an educator turned stay-at-home-mama of five! I’m the owner and creator of Stay At Home Educator, a website about intentional teaching and purposeful learning in the early childhood years. I’ve taught a range of levels, from preschool to college and a little bit of everything in between. Right now my focus is teaching my children and running a preschool from my home. Credentials include: Bachelors in Art, Masters in Curriculum and Instruction.

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Activities For Children

10 Essential Art Activities for Preschoolers

In the colorful realm of early education, “10 Essential Art Activities for Preschoolers” takes center stage as a vibrant palette for nurturing creativity and imagination. These carefully curated art activities are not just about colors and shapes; they are essential building blocks for the holistic development of young minds. From finger painting to collage making, each activity becomes a canvas for self-expression, fine motor skill development, and sensory exploration.

Engaging in art activities for preschoolers transcends mere play; it fosters a love for experimentation and curiosity. Whether it’s creating whimsical creatures from recycled materials or exploring the wonders of watercolor, these essential art experiences not only stimulate artistic flair but also contribute to cognitive, social, and emotional growth. In the tapestry of early learning, these art activities weave a narrative of discovery, joy, and the boundless potential that lies within every young artist.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Colors: Exploring the Basics in Art Activities for Preschoolers

The world is a vibrant tapestry of colors, and for young children, experiencing these colors through art is a magical journey of discovery. Introducing the basics of color theory through engaging Art Activities for Preschoolers ignites their creativity, enhances their cognitive development, and fosters a lifelong love for art and learning.

The Power of Color:

Colors play a significant role in children’s development. They stimulate the senses, evoke emotions, and provide opportunities for learning and exploration. By exposing children to different colors and their combinations, we can:

• Enhance Sensory Development: Colors engage the visual sense, encouraging children to observe and explore the world around them.
• Promote Cognitive Growth: Learning about primary and secondary colors, mixing them, and exploring different shades helps develop problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
• Nurture Creativity and Imagination: Colors offer endless possibilities for artistic expression, allowing children to explore their imaginations and bring their unique ideas to life.
• Foster Emotional Intelligence: Different colors evoke different emotions, and through art activities, children can learn to identify and express their feelings healthily.
• Cultivate Fine Motor Skills: Activities like painting, drawing, and using color tools help children develop hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills essential for future learning.

Colorful Fun: Engaging Art Activities:

Here are some fun and engaging Art Activities for Preschoolers that introduce the basics of color theory:

• Primary Color Mixing: Provide red, yellow, and blue paint and let children mix them to discover secondary colors like green, orange, and purple. Discuss how primary colors cannot be created by mixing others.
• Color Scavenger Hunt: Hide objects of different colors around the room and create a scavenger hunt list for children to find. This activity encourages color recognition and exploration.
• Sensory Bin Exploration: Fill a bin with colored rice, beans, or pasta and encourage children to scoop, pour, and create different shapes and patterns. This engages their senses and promotes tactile exploration.
• Color Collage: Provide various colored construction paper, magazines, or fabric scraps and let children create a collage. This activity allows for creative expression and color experimentation.
• Color Wheel Painting: Create a color wheel using construction paper or paint and let children paint different objects or scenes using the corresponding colors. This reinforces color recognition and understanding of the color wheel.
• Colorful Storytelling: Read a story and have children use crayons or markers to draw pictures of the characters and objects, focusing on the colors described in the story. This combines color learning with literacy skills.
• Keep it simple: Start with basic color concepts and gradually introduce more complex ideas as children develop. Provide plenty of materials: Offer a variety of colorful and engaging materials to spark creativity and exploration.
• Focus on the process: Let children enjoy the process of creating art without emphasizing perfection.
• Make it fun: Use positive reinforcement, encouragement, and playful activities to keep children engaged and enthusiastic about learning about colors.

By incorporating these engaging Art Activities for Preschoolers, we can open doors to a world of color, creativity, and learning. Let’s encourage children to explore the vibrant tapestry of colors and experience the joy of artistic expression.

Messy Masterpieces: The Joy of Finger Painting for Preschool Artists

Finger painting, with its vibrant colors and tactile delight, is an art form that holds a special place in the hearts of preschoolers. More than just a messy activity, finger painting unlocks a world of creative expression, sensory exploration, and developmental benefits, making it an essential addition to the repertoire of Art Activities for Preschoolers .

Unleashing Creativity:

Finger painting transcends the limitations of brushes and pencils, allowing children to express themselves freely and directly. The tactile experience of squishing and spreading paint encourages sensory exploration and imaginative play. Colors become extensions of their thoughts and emotions, leading to unique and often surprising masterpieces.

Boosting Sensory Development:

The sensory experience of finger painting goes beyond sight. The textures of the paint, the coldness on their fingers, and the mixing of colors engage multiple senses and stimulate neural pathways. This multi-sensory experience fosters brain development and helps children learn about the world around them.

Enhancing Motor Skills:

Squeezing paint tubes, scooping colors from containers, and spreading them across paper involves various hand and finger movements. These actions strengthen fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and dexterity, which are crucial for future learning and activities.

Building Confidence and Self-Esteem:

Completing a finger painting project fosters a sense of accomplishment and pride in young children. Seeing their creations come to life builds confidence and self-esteem, encouraging them to continue exploring their creativity and expressing themselves through art.

Promoting Social Interaction and Collaboration:

Finger painting can be a solo activity or a collaborative experience. Sharing paints, creating joint masterpieces, and discussing the creative process provide opportunities for social interaction and cooperation, fostering communication skills and teamwork.

Turning Messy into Magical:

While finger painting can be messy, the potential benefits outweigh the cleanup effort. Here are some tips to make the experience more enjoyable and manageable:

• Choose water-based finger paints: They are safer for children and easier to clean.
• Protect the environment: Cover the workspace with newspapers or plastic sheets.
• Provide a variety of materials: Offer different colors, textures, and tools like sponges or rollers to encourage exploration.
• Focus on the process: Let children enjoy the tactile experience without worrying about the outcome.
• Celebrate the artwork: Display their creations proudly and encourage them to discuss their artistic choices.

By embracing the mess and focusing on the joy of creation, finger painting for preschoolers becomes more than just an art activity; it becomes a magical journey of self-discovery, learning, and creative expression. So, grab some paint, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the world of messy masterpieces!

Recycled Creations: Eco-Friendly Art Activities for Preschoolers

In a world increasingly concerned about environmental sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly practices into every aspect of our lives, including early childhood education, is crucial. Art Activities for Preschoolers that utilize recycled materials offer a unique opportunity to teach children about responsible resource management while nurturing their creativity and artistic expression.

Turning Trash into Treasure:

By using everyday items like cardboard boxes, plastic bottles, egg cartons, and fabric scraps, we can transform seemingly useless waste into vibrant and creative art projects. This not only diverts items from landfills but also teaches children valuable lessons about conservation, resourcefulness, and the importance of giving new life to old objects.

Unleashing Creativity and Imagination:

The open-ended nature of recycled materials allows children to unleash their creativity and imagination without limitations. Whether it’s building a cardboard castle, crafting a colorful mobile from egg cartons, or creating a collage with fabric scraps, the possibilities are endless. This freedom of expression encourages independent thinking, problem-solving skills, and the joy of creating something unique.

Developing Fine Motor Skills:

Working with recycled materials often involves manipulating small objects, tearing, cutting, and gluing. These actions promote the development of fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and dexterity, which are essential for future learning activities like writing and drawing.

Building Environmental Awareness:

By incorporating recycled materials into their art projects, children develop a deeper understanding of the impact their choices have on the environment. They learn about the importance of reducing waste, reusing resources, and finding creative ways to breathe new life into old objects. This awareness fosters a sense of responsibility and encourages them to make eco-friendly choices throughout their lives.

Promoting Collaboration and Teamwork:

Many recycled art projects are best done collaboratively. Working together on a project encourages communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Children learn to share ideas, collaborate on their creations, and appreciate the contributions of others.

Fun and Engaging Activities to Try:

Here are some fun and engaging Art Activities for Preschoolers using recycled materials:

• Cardboard Box Creations: Children can turn cardboard boxes into houses, cars, spaceships, or anything their imaginations can conjure. Add paint, markers, and other embellishments to bring their creations to life.
• Plastic Bottle Crafts: Plastic bottles can be transformed into flower pots, bird feeders, or musical instruments.
• Encourage children to decorate them with paint, glitter, or fabric scraps.
• Egg Carton Animals: Turn egg cartons into colorful animals like caterpillars, dinosaurs, or owls. Use paint, markers, yarn, and other materials to add details and bring them to life.
• Fabric Scrap Collages: Collect fabric scraps in different colors and textures and let children create unique collages. This activity encourages creativity and fine motor skills.
• Recycled Jewelry: Create necklaces, bracelets, and earrings from bottle caps, buttons, beads, and other recycled materials. This activity promotes creativity and fine motor skills.

By embracing recycled materials in Art Activities for Preschoolers, we can nurture their creativity, promote environmental awareness, and foster a sense of responsibility for our planet. So, let’s turn trash into treasure and inspire young minds to think outside the box, create with purpose, and care for the world around them.

Shape Adventures: Building Foundations through Geometric Art Activities for Preschoolers

For young minds, the world is full of fascinating shapes and patterns. Building upon this natural curiosity, Geometric Art Activities for Preschoolers can be transformative experiences, nurturing their creativity, developing cognitive skills, and laying the foundation for future learning.

Unveiling the World of Shapes:

Exposing children to different geometric shapes, like circles, squares, triangles, and rectangles, helps them develop essential cognitive skills. By recognizing, sorting, and manipulating shapes, children learn about spatial relationships, problem-solving strategies, and the fundamental principles of geometry.

Fueling Creativity and Imagination:

Geometric shapes offer a unique playground for creative expression. Children can use them to build imaginative landscapes, construct playful characters, or create intricate patterns and designs. This freedom to explore shapes and colors fosters creativity, independent thinking, and the joy of artistic expression.

Strengthening Fine Motor Skills:

Working with various materials like crayons, markers, clay, and blocks requires children to use their hands and fingers in precise ways. Manipulating shapes, cutting them out, and arranging them in specific patterns strengthens fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and dexterity, which are crucial for future learning activities.

Developing Visual-Spatial Skills:

Geometric art activities stimulate the visual-spatial part of the brain. By analyzing shapes, identifying their properties, and visualizing them in different configurations, children develop their spatial awareness, which is essential for understanding their surroundings and navigating their world.

Enhancing Language Development:

Incorporating shapes into art activities provides natural opportunities for language development. Children can learn the names of different shapes, describe their properties, and use spatial vocabulary when explaining their creations. This enriches their vocabulary and strengthens their communication skills.

Engaging Activities for Shape Exploration:

Here are some engaging Geometric Art Activities for Preschoolers:

• Shape Sorting: Provide a variety of shapes and containers and encourage children to sort them based on their characteristics. This activity promotes shape recognition and problem-solving.
• Shape Collages: Offer construction paper, fabric scraps, and other materials cut into different geometric shapes.
• Let children create unique collages, exploring patterns and colors.
• Building with Blocks: Use various types of blocks like wooden blocks, Legos, or Duplos to build structures, vehicles, or imaginative landscapes. This activity strengthens spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills.
• Shape Tracing and Drawing: Provide templates or encourage children to draw different shapes freehand. This activity develops fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
• Shape Scavenger Hunt: Hide objects of different shapes around the room and create a scavenger hunt list for children to find. This activity encourages shape recognition and exploration.

By incorporating Geometric Art Activities for Preschoolers into their learning journeys, we can unlock a world of possibilities. We can nurture their creativity, build important cognitive skills, and inspire a lifelong love for learning. So, let’s embark on a shape adventure and watch young minds blossom as they explore the fascinating world of geometry through art.

Sensory Explorations: Texture and Touch in Preschool Art Activities for Preschoolers

Preschoolers are naturally curious about the world around them, exploring it primarily through their senses. Art Activities for Preschoolers that engage the sense of touch provide unique opportunities for sensory exploration, fostering creativity, cognitive development, and a deeper appreciation for the world’s textures.

Unleashing the Power of Touch:

Sensory experiences through texture and touch play a vital role in early childhood development. By exploring different textures in art activities, children learn to differentiate between smooth, rough, bumpy, and other tactile sensations. This sensory awareness enhances their understanding of the world around them and stimulates neural pathways in the brain.

Fueling Creative Expression:

Textures offer a vast playground for artistic exploration. Children can use sand, clay, playdough, fabric scraps, and other materials to create unique textures in their art projects. This tactile experience encourages them to experiment, express themselves creatively, and explore different artistic techniques.

Manipulating materials with various textures strengthens fine motor skills in young children. Squeezing clay, pushing sand through their fingers, and cutting fabric scraps require precise hand and finger movements. These actions contribute to the development of dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and spatial awareness, which are essential for future learning.

Enhancing Sensory Integration:

Combining different textures in art activities can stimulate sensory integration, which refers to the brain’s ability to process information from multiple senses simultaneously. This integrated sensory experience fosters cognitive development and promotes a holistic understanding of the world.

Building Communication Skills:

Exploring textures provides natural opportunities for language development. Children can learn new vocabulary related to touch and textures, describe their sensory experiences, and use descriptive language to explain their artwork to others. This enhances their communication skills and promotes self-expression.

Engaging Activities for Textural Exploration:

Here are some engaging Art Activities for Preschoolers that focus on texture and touch:

• Sensory Bin Play: Fill a bin with sand, rice, beans, or other materials with different textures. Encourage children to explore the textures with their hands, scoop them up, and create shapes and patterns.
• Texture Rubbings: Provide children with crayons and paper and encourage them to create rubbings from textured surfaces like leaves, bark, or fabric. This activity combines touch and sight, creating unique artistic compositions.
• Playdough Creations: Offer playdough in different colors and textures. Let children explore the playdough, make shapes, and create imaginative figures and objects. This activity encourages tactile exploration and creativity.
• Nature Collage: Gather leaves, twigs, stones, and other natural materials with different textures. Let children create a collage using these materials, exploring texture and composition.
• Sensory Painting: Mix paint with sand, glitter, or other textured materials. Encourage children to paint with their fingers or tools, explore the tactile experience, and create textured artwork.

By incorporating Art Activities for Preschoolers that engage the sense of touch, we can unlock a world of sensory exploration. We can nurture their creativity, enhance their cognitive development, and empower them to experience the world through their fingertips. So, let’s embrace the joy of textures and embark on a sensory adventure with our young learners!

Storytelling with Art: Creating Narrative Magic in Preschooler Creations

Preschoolers are natural storytellers, weaving tales of faraway lands and fantastical creatures. Art Activities for Preschoolers can be powerful tools to unlock this storytelling potential, allowing them to express their imaginations visually and create narrative magic through their artwork.

Unleashing the Inner Storyteller:

Art provides a unique medium for young children to express their inner narratives. By drawing, painting, sculpting, or constructing, they can translate their thoughts, emotions, and experiences into visual stories. This process allows them to explore their imaginations, develop self-expression skills, and communicate their ideas in creative ways.

Building Narrative Skills:

Through art, children can practice and develop essential narrative skills. They learn to sequence events, create characters and settings, and build a cohesive story arc. This process strengthens their critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of cause-and-effect relationships.

Nurturing Creativity and Imagination:

Art activities act as a springboard for creative expression and imaginative exploration. With paints, crayons, clay, and other materials, children can bring their stories to life in vibrant colors and captivating textures. This creative freedom empowers them to think outside the box, explore different possibilities, and develop their unique artistic voices.

Developing Visual Literacy:

As children create art, they also develop their visual literacy skills. They learn to interpret visual symbols, understand the relationships between colors and shapes, and communicate their ideas through visual representations. This visual literacy is essential for future learning and success in various fields.

Enhancing Language Skills:

Combining storytelling with art activities provides opportunities for language development. Children can narrate their stories while creating art, describing their creations, and discussing their artistic choices. This enriches their vocabulary, strengthens their communication skills, and helps them develop their storytelling abilities further.

Engaging Activities for Narrative Expression:

Here are some engaging Art Activities for Preschoolers that encourage storytelling:

• Story Illustration: Read a story to the children and then provide them with materials to create illustrations of their favorite scenes or characters. Encourage them to tell the story using their artwork.
• Character Creation: Have children use clay, fabric scraps, or other materials to create characters from their favorite stories or their imaginations. Encourage them to invent personalities, backstories, and adventures for their creations.
• Comic Strip Creations: Provide children with paper divided into panels and let them create their own comic strip stories. Encourage them to use drawings and words to tell their story sequentially.
• Story Box Adventures: Fill a box with props and materials related to a specific story or theme. Let children use the props to act out the story or create their derivative narratives.
• Open-Ended Art Prompts: Provide open-ended prompts like “Draw a picture of a magical place” or “Create a sculpture of your favorite animal.” Encourage children to use their imaginations, tell stories through their artwork, and explain their creative choices.

By embracing Art Activities for Preschoolers as tools for storytelling, we can empower the next generation of creative thinkers and storytellers. We can provide them with a platform to express their inner worlds, develop essential skills, and embrace the magic of narrative through art. So, let’s open the doors to imagination and witness the extraordinary stories unfold through the hands of young artists!

Nature-Inspired Art: Bringing the Outdoors into Preschooler Masterpieces

For young minds, nature is a playground of wonder and discovery. By incorporating Nature-Inspired Art Activities for Preschoolers, we can bring the wonders of the outdoors into their creative spaces, fostering a connection with the environment, sparking curiosity, and nurturing artistic expression.

Unveiling the Artist Within:

Nature offers a boundless source of inspiration for young artists. From vibrant flowers and delicate leaves to fascinating insects and textured bark, each element provides an opportunity for exploration and creative expression. Using natural materials in art activities allows children to experiment, discover new textures, and translate the beauty of nature into their unique masterpieces.

Cultivating Environmental Awareness:

Engaging with nature through art activities fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of the environment. Children learn to observe the intricate details of leaves, the delicate structure of flowers, and the diverse colors and patterns found in nature. This awareness encourages a sense of responsibility and respect for the natural world.

Sparkling Curiosity and Exploration:

Art activities with natural materials ignite a sense of curiosity and encourage exploration. As children collect leaves, observe insects, and experiment with different textures, they develop their investigative skills and inquisitiveness. This spark of curiosity can lead to further exploration of the natural world and a lifelong love of learning.

Manipulating natural materials like twigs, leaves, and pebbles requires precision and dexterity. String beads, gluing leaves onto paper, and arranging pebbles into patterns all contribute to the development of fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and spatial awareness, which are crucial for future learning.

Promoting Sensory Integration:

Nature-inspired art activities engage multiple senses, stimulating the brain and fostering sensory integration. Children can feel the textures of leaves and bark, smell the fresh air, and see the vibrant colors of flowers and insects. This integrated sensory experience enhances their understanding of the world around them and promotes cognitive development.

Engaging Activities for Nature-Inspired Creations:

Here are some engaging Nature-Inspired Art Activities for Preschoolers:

• Leaf Collages: Collect leaves in different shapes, sizes, and colors. Let children create collages using the leaves, exploring patterns and textures.
• Nature Scavenger Hunt: Give children a list of natural objects to find, like leaves of different shapes, colorful pebbles, or interesting twigs. Encourage them to create a nature collection or use their finds in an art project.
• Flower Painting: Collect colorful flowers and press them flat. Provide children with paint and paper and encourage them to create floral paintings using the pressed flowers.
• Outdoor Sculptures: Gather natural materials like twigs, stones, and leaves. Let children create sculptures outdoors, exploring balance, shape, and texture.
• Seed Art: Collect different seeds and let children create patterns and pictures using the seeds on glue-covered paper.

By embracing Nature-Inspired Art Activities for Preschoolers, we can provide young learners with a unique and enriching experience. We can nurture their creativity, spark curiosity about the natural world, and empower them to translate the beauty of nature into their artistic masterpieces. So, let’s step outside, explore the wonders of nature, and bring them to life through art!

Collage Magic: Crafting Whimsical Worlds with Art Activities for Preschool

Imagine a world where imagination reigns supreme, where vibrant colors dance across paper, and where stories unfold piece by piece. This is the magical realm of collage, a captivating art form that holds a special place in the hearts of preschoolers. By incorporating Art Activities for Preschoolers that focus on college, we can unlock a treasure trove of creative expression, cognitive development, and joyful exploration.

Collage transcends the limitations of traditional art forms, offering a unique platform for free-spirited expression. With scraps of paper, fabric, magazines, and other materials at their disposal, young artists can embark on a journey of limitless creativity. They can combine textures, colors, and shapes to bring their imaginative visions to life, crafting whimsical worlds and fantastical creatures.

Nurturing Cognitive Skills:

Collage is more than just a messy activity; it’s a hidden playground for cognitive development. As children choose, arrange, and glue various materials, they develop important skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and spatial awareness. They learn to plan their creations, visualize the final product, and manipulate materials with precision, all while strengthening their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

Boosting Fine Motor Skills:

Collage activities involve a variety of fine motor movements, from tearing and cutting paper to picking up and arranging small objects. These actions strengthen the muscles in the hands and fingers, promoting dexterity and control. This newfound control enhances children’s ability to manipulate tools and materials with greater precision, which is crucial for future learning and activities like writing and drawing.

Building Language Skills:

College can be a springboard for enriching language development. As children discuss their creative choices, describe their artwork, and share their stories, they expand their vocabulary and strengthen their communication skills. The act of narrating their creations encourages them to organize their thoughts, express themselves clearly, and engage in meaningful conversations about their art.

Enhancing Social Interaction and Collaboration:

Collage projects can be a shared experience, fostering social interaction and teamwork among children. They can work together to create a collaborative collage, sharing materials, brainstorming ideas, and celebrating each other’s contributions. This collaborative learning environment promotes communication, problem-solving, and social-emotional development.

Engaging Activities for Collage Magic:

Here are some fun and engaging Art Activities for Preschoolers that incorporate the magic of collage:

• Tissue Paper Landscapes: Provide children with tissue paper in various colors and textures. Encourage them to create landscapes, depicting mountains, skies, oceans, and other natural elements.
• Magazine Collage Stories: Collect magazines with colorful images and let children cut out pictures to create their own stories. They can arrange the pictures in a sequence and narrate their story using the collage as a visual guide.
• Fabric Scrap Creatures: Gather fabric scraps in different textures and colors. Let children create imaginary creatures, experimenting with shapes and textures to bring their creations to life.
• Nature Scavenger Hunt Collage: Send children on a nature scavenger hunt to find leaves, twigs, pebbles, and other natural objects. Encourage them to use their finds to create a collage inspired by nature.
• Group Collaboration Collage: Provide a large piece of paper and various collage materials. Let children work together to create a collaborative collage, discussing ideas, sharing materials, and celebrating their collective creation.

By embracing the magic of collage in Art Activities for Preschoolers, we can unlock a world of creativity, learning, and self-expression. We can empower young minds to explore their imaginations, develop essential skills, and experience the joy of bringing their whimsical worlds to life, one piece at a time. So, grab some glue, gather your materials, and dive into the magical world of collage with your young artists!

Watercolor Wonders: Unleashing the Magic of Colors in Preschooler Art

For preschoolers, the world is a vibrant tapestry of colors, waiting to be explored and expressed. Art Activities for Preschoolers that incorporate watercolors offer a unique opportunity to unleash the magic of colors, fostering creativity, sensory exploration, and a lifelong love for artistic expression.

A Splash of Creativity:

Watercolors are like a window to a world of endless possibilities. The fluidity of the paint, the unpredictable way it interacts with water, and the vibrant colors that bleed and blend create an enchanting experience for young artists. This freedom to experiment, explore, and create without limitations fosters boundless creativity and encourages children to express themselves through the language of colors.

Sensory Exploration:

Watercolor activities engage multiple senses, stimulating the brain and promoting sensory integration. Children can feel the coolness of the water on their fingers, see the colors blending and swirling, and smell the unique scent of the paint. This multi-sensory experience enhances their understanding of the world around them and deepens their connection to the artistic process.

Fine Motor Skills Development:

Manipulating paintbrushes, squeezing paint tubes, and controlling the flow of water requires precision and dexterity. Watercolor activities strengthen fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and spatial awareness, which are crucial for future learning and activities like writing and drawing.

Color Recognition and Exploration:

Playing with watercolors introduces young children to the world of color mixing and blending. They can experiment with primary colors to create secondary colors, observe how colors interact with water, and explore different shades and hues. This exploration fosters color recognition, an understanding of color theory, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of colors.

Open-Ended and Adaptable:

Watercolor activities are adaptable to various learning styles and developmental levels. They can be simple and spontaneous, allowing children to explore freely, or they can be guided with prompts and themes to encourage specific learning objectives. This open-ended nature makes watercolor art accessible and engaging for all young learners.

Engaging Activities for Preschooler Watercolorists:

Here are some fun and engaging Art Activities for Preschoolers with watercolors:

• Watercolor Washes: Provide children with large pieces of paper and let them paint with watercolors, experimenting with different colors and techniques. Encourage them to create washes, explore gradients, and observe how the colors mix and blend.
• Wet-on-Wet Techniques: Encourage children to paint on wet paper, allowing the colors to flow and blend organically. This technique creates unique textures and unpredictable effects, sparking their curiosity and creativity.
• Salt Resist Painting: Let children paint their artwork on dry paper and then sprinkle salt on the wet paint. As the paint dries, the salt creates a resist effect, leaving interesting patterns and textures.
• Blow Painting: Provide children with straws and let them blow on wet paint to create swirling patterns and shapes. This adds an element of fun and surprise to their artwork.
• Watercolor Nature Collages: Encourage children to collect natural materials like leaves, flowers, and twigs. Let them arrange the materials on paper and paint around them with watercolors, creating a colorful nature-inspired collage.

By incorporating watercolor activities into their learning journeys, we can empower young artists to explore their creativity, engage their senses, and develop essential skills. We can help them discover the magic of colors and unlock a lifetime of artistic expression. So, grab some watercolors, unleash the creativity, and let the colorful journey begin!

Celebrating Diversity: Cultural and Global Art Activities for Preschoolers

Preschool is a pivotal time for fostering open-mindedness and appreciation for different cultures. Art activities can play a vital role in this process, introducing children to diverse perspectives and sparking curiosity about the world around them. By exploring various artistic expressions from around the globe, we can help children understand their own unique identities while fostering a sense of belonging to a global community.

Here are some engaging “Art Activities for Preschoolers” that celebrate cultural and global diversity:

1. Mask Making: Explore different cultural masks from around the world, such as Venetian carnival masks in Italy, Japanese Noh masks, or Mexican Alebrijes. Provide materials like cardboard, fabric scraps, beads, feathers, and paint and let children design their masks, drawing inspiration from various cultures.

2. Cultural Clothing Collage: Collect images of clothing from different cultures, showcasing diverse styles and patterns. Have children cut and paste these images onto a large piece of paper, creating a vibrant collage that represents the beauty of human diversity.

3. Global Music and Movement: Explore music from various cultures, introducing children to different instruments, rhythms, and dance styles. Encourage them to move their bodies to the music, expressing their interpretations of the sounds and rhythms.

4. Sensory Exploration: Set up different stations featuring materials and textures from various cultures. This might include spices from India, colorful scarves from Thailand, or textured fabrics from West Africa. Let children explore these materials with their senses, fostering curiosity and appreciation for different cultures.

5. Story Time with Global Flavors: Read children’s books that showcase diverse cultures and stories. Engage them in discussions about the characters, settings, and traditions presented in the books. You can even incorporate elements from the stories into art projects, like building a miniature version of a cultural landmark or creating masks inspired by the characters.

6. Collaborative Art Projects: Divide children into small groups and assign each group a different culture to explore. Encourage them to research the chosen culture’s art forms and create a collaborative artwork inspired by their findings. This could be a mural, a sculpture, a dance performance, or a musical piece.

7. Cultural Food Festival: Organize a classroom food festival where parents and families share dishes from their cultural backgrounds. This allows children to experience diverse flavors and traditions through food while celebrating the richness of their community.

8. Global Crafts: Introduce children to traditional crafts from different cultures, like origami from Japan, paper cutting from China, or weaving from Africa. Provide materials and instructions, and let them create their crafts, appreciating the skill and artistry involved in each tradition.

9. Cultural Dance Performances: Invite local cultural groups or artists to perform traditional dances for the children. This provides a firsthand experience of diverse movement styles and cultural expressions, allowing children to appreciate the beauty and energy of different dance forms.

10. Community Art Project: Partner with a local community center to create a collaborative art project that celebrates diversity. This could involve creating a mural depicting various cultural symbols, designing a community garden with plants from different regions, or writing and performing a play that highlights the stories and traditions of different cultures.

By incorporating these “Art Activities for Preschoolers” into your curriculum, you can create an engaging and enriching environment that celebrates cultural diversity and fosters a sense of global citizenship in young children.

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Teaching Preschool Art Lessons

Home » Teaching Preschool Art Lessons

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Kindergarten to Grade 2

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Teaching art to Preschoolers

Preschool aged children (aged 2, 3, 4 & 5 yrs) need opportunities to develop their growing abilities through books, games, songs, science, math and art activities.

What to Expect: 2-3 years:

Between their second and third birthdays, children begin to pay attention to print, such as the letters in their names. They also begin to distinguish between drawing and writing and start to scribble on paper, making some marks that are like letters. Two and three year olds require activities to help them develop hand coordination (for example, by holding crayons and pencils, putting together puzzles or stringing large beads).

What to Expect: 3-4 years:

By their 3rd and 4th birthdays, children have greater small-muscle control than toddlers, which is reflected in their drawings and scribbles. They can match and sort things that are alike and unalike, recognize and print  and can “write,” or scribble messages.

What to Expect: 4-5 years:

Between their 4th and 5th birthdays, children are active, enjoy more group activities and have better muscle control. They can recognize and write the numerals 1-10, recognize shapes such as circles, squares, rectangles and triangles and can write some letters.

Keep the following things in mind when working with your preschool aged child:

• Never tell your child what to draw or paint.
• Don’t “fix up” your child’s drawings. It might take practice before you can recognize what she has drawn, but let her be creative.
• Invite your child to talk to you about what she is drawing and to identify by name each object in the picture.
• Give your child lots of different materials to work with. Show her how to use new types of materials.
• Find an art activity that’s at the right level for your child and let him do as much of the project as possible.
• Display your child’s art prominently in your home. Point it out to visitors when your child is near to hear the praise.

Ideal Arts Activities for Preschoolers:

Young children love to play with dough . They can squish and pound it and form it into fascinating shapes. Helping to make play dough lets children learn about measuring and learn and use new words.

Music is a way to communicate that all children understand. It’s not necessary for them to follow the words to a song; it makes them happy just to hear the comfort in your voice or on the recording or to dance to a peppy tune.

Young children are natural artists and art projects can spark young imaginations and help children to express themselves. Scribbling also prepares them to use writing to express their ideas.

>>Click HERE for our list of PreK Art Lessons<<

Favourite preschool (early childhood education) art lessons.

Color the Snow Corn Syrup Color Mixing Cornmeal and Powdered Paint Crayon Crackle Painting Crayon Resist Fish Drawing on Wet Glue with Chalk Pastels Dripping Paint Action Painting Egg Carton Caterpillar Frozen Paint Pops Fruit and Vegetable Prints Handprint Canadian Flags Handprint Rainbows Handprint Turkey with Texture

Holiday Fingerprint / Finger Painting Crafts for Kids Little Green Make a Sticker Shekere Maracas (Recycled Objects) Milk Bubbles Monoprinting: Three Ways Muffin Liner Flowers Craft Mouse Painting (Color Mixing) Nature Art Activities for Kids Paint Blots Painting with Flowers Pointillism Corn Primary Colors Snails Pulled String Paintings

Raindrop Painting Sand Painting Sponge Painting Spray Bottle Mural Spreading Paint with a Popsicle Stick Tasty Color Mixing Tennis Ball Prints Tips for Working with Play Dough Two Layer Painting Winter Picture with Foam Shapes and Stickers

>>>MORE

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17 Amazing Art Activities For Preschoolers

• Art Education

Art is an essential part of a child’s growth and development. Engaging in creative activities helps preschoolers enhance their fine motor skills, boost cognitive abilities, and foster self-expression. Here are 17 amazing art activities to captivate the imaginations of your little ones and set them on the path of artistic exploration.

1. Finger Painting: One of the most enjoyable tactile experiences for young children is playing with finger paint. It’s a wonderful sensory activity that encourages creativity and improves fine motor skills.

2. Collage Art: Provide your preschoolers with various materials like colored paper, magazines, fabric, and glue to create their collages. It enhances decision-making skills and stimulates imagination.

3. Stamping: Using fruit or vegetable stamps allows children to explore different shapes, patterns, and colors while working on their hand-eye coordination.

4. String Painting: Dip strings or yarn pieces in paint and drape them onto paper for unique abstract art creations. This activity challenges kids to work with unconventional tools and helps build their creativity.

5. Paper Mache: Teach children about recycling by sculpting paper mache artwork out of old newspapers, glue, and water. This activity nurtures patience as they wait for their projects to dry before painting them.

6. Salt Dough Sculptures: Combine salt, flour, and water to create a dough that can be molded into various shapes, then baked to harden. Children learn about different textures as they knead the dough and shape it into masterpieces.

7. Bubble Wrap Painting: Recycle bubble wrap by using it as a painting tool for interesting textures on their artwork.

8. Chalk Drawing: Give kids colorful sidewalk chalk to draw or write; this not only encourages creativity but also improves gross motor skills during outdoor play.

9. Leaf Rubbings: Collect leaves from your backyard or local park and have children rub crayons against one side, revealing unique patterns and textures.

10. Pasta Jewelry: Painting and threading pasta onto strings make for a fun activity that develops fine motor skills while creating wearable art.

11. Mask Making: Provide your preschoolers with paper plates and decorations to create their masks, encouraging imaginative play and storytelling.

12. Puppet Making: Crafting puppets out of socks, paper bags, or popsicle sticks is a fantastic way to engage children in creative play and improve their communication skills.

13. Clay: Playing with clay is ideal for improving hand strength, building fine motor skills, and encouraging creativity.

14. Crayon Melting Art: Melt old or broken crayons on wax paper to create beautiful stain glass-like designs.

15. Watercolor Resist Painting: Use white crayons or oil pastels to draw a hidden picture on paper before painting over it with watercolors – watching the image reappear surprises kids and delights their curiosity!

16. Sponge Painting: Cut sponges into interesting shapes and dip them in paint for a fun way to explore texture and patterns.

17. Tape Resist Art: Place painter’s tape in geometric patterns on paper, have children paint over it, then remove the tape after the paint dries to reveal eye-catching designs.

With these 17 amazing art activities, your preschoolers will be well on their way to discovering their inner artists and flourishing both creatively and developmentally.

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Parent Resources for Learning > Creativity > 6 Free Creativity-Building Preschool Art Activities

6 Free Creativity-Building Preschool Art Activities

by Dr. Jody Sherman LeVos | Feb 16, 2024 | Creativity

Preschoolers are creative superheroes. From age 3 to age 4, a kid’s artistic abilities explode  (sometimes literally, if they’re dropping paint or a bucket of crayons!).

Their drawings become more recognizable, they may start to play pretend and invent friends or characters, and some kids start expressing themselves with clothes or makeup.

Kids’ natural Creativity  (one of the 5 C’s  that helps them thrive in school and life) is a wonderful thing.

It helps them innovate and adapt to change, and if they can maintain it as they get older, it’s one of the most in-demand skills in adulthood.

Most kids’ creativity starts to fade after preschool as their brains change and school becomes more academic and focused on finding the right answers.

Encouraging their creativity when they’re young can help them keep that magic through their school years and beyond!

Wondering how you can help? We’ve got your back with 5 DIY art activities preschoolers (and their parents!) love.

The Short Cut

• Art games and activities help preschoolers maintain their natural creativity
• The best art activities for 3- and 4-year-olds are open-ended and allow them to experiment and express themselves
• Many simple preschool art activities can be done at home for free with a few common materials
• Digital and hands-on creative art activities like the ones in Begin’s learning membership strengthen kids’ creativity and support other learning

1. Finger Painting

What You Need

• Plastic, newspaper, or other covering
• Kid-safe finger paint
• Washable tray or small bowls
• Sheets of white or black paper
• String (optional)
• Clothespins (optional)
• Paper cups (optional)
• Place plastic, newspaper, or another covering over the kids’ work area to prevent staining if they spill paint (which they likely will).
• Put each color of finger paint into the tray or bowls.
• Give each kid a sheet of paper.
• Show the kids how to dip their fingers into the paint and spread it around on their paper to make a design.
• Let them paint!
• When the kids are finished with their designs, the paint will need to dry before the pieces are finished.
• Dress kids in old clothes or use aprons to keep their clothes clean—most brands of kid-safe finger paint are washable, but they’re not always completely stain free.
• If you have white and black paper, encourage kids to experiment with each type to see how the colors look on different backgrounds.
• Keep the kids at their work area while they’re painting, and don’t forget they’ll need to wash their hands right away after finishing.
• You can let the art dry in place or line-dry it by hanging a string where the kids can see it and clipping the paper to it with clothespins (handy if you need to use the space for something else).
• Try going 3-D! If you have paper cups in the house, it can be fun to give the kids a chance to paint one of those as well.

2. Ping-Pong Ball Painting

• Ping-pong balls
• Nontoxic acrylic paint (3–6 colors)
• Empty egg carton
• White paper
• One cardboard box per child (should be around the same size as the paper)
• Masking tape
• Craft supplies, markers, and pencils (optional)
• Picture frame (optional)
• Pour one color of paint (about a tablespoon) into each of the egg carton’s holes. Dilute each color of paint with several drops of water, then stir it until it’s well mixed.
• Put a sheet of white paper at the bottom of each cardboard box. Tape down the edges to keep the paper secure.
• Have each kid put a ping-pong ball into one of the holes in the egg carton (it should float), and gently spin the ball to coat it. Repeat the process until you have a paint-covered ball for each of your colors. Wash the kids’ hands between colors if you want to keep them from mixing.
• After the balls are covered in paint, add them to the box containing the paper and close it.
• Tape the box shut (otherwise the next step may make a mess).
• Make some art! Tell the kids to shake their boxes—as they do, the ping-pong balls will bounce around, making fun designs on the paper. Let the kids shake as long as you’d like, then open the box and check out their masterpieces!

3. Paper Bag Puppets

• Paper lunch bags, 1 per child
• Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
• Colorful construction paper
• Kid-safe scissors
• Yarn, googly eyes, and other decorations (optional)
• Give each child a paper lunch bag.
• Leaving the bag folded, encourage the kids to draw a basic face on the bottom of the bag—two eyes, a nose, and a mouth is pretty good for this age group! To make the best puppet, half the mouth should be on the bottom of the bag, and half should be on the main part of the bag.
• Let the kids experiment with cutting out small pieces of construction paper, then help them glue the pieces of paper to the bags to decorate. You’ll probably end up with a hodgepodge of shapes, and that’s OK!
• If you want to, let the kids add yarn to the top of the bag’s “face” for hair, or glue googly eyes onto the bag. Let them be creative—it’s okay if they put them in the “wrong” place!
• To make the bag into a puppet, show the kids how to put their hand inside, then lift up the bottom of the bag partway so the puppet’s mouth opens and it appears to “talk.”
• Once the puppets are finished, use them to tell stories together. Start with a simple prompt like “Once upon a time there was a very brave ____” or “Let’s tell a silly story about a ____. One day the ___ was…” See if the kids can act out the story with the puppet as you tell it!
• This activity is easier for kids to understand if they have a model. Try making your own puppet ahead of time, or make a quick one while they watch to demonstrate what they’re aiming for.
• Preschoolers often won’t put the mouth on the right part of the bag to make it open. That’s OK! Most kids at this age aren’t master puppeteers anyway. The puppet can still nod, shake its head, and jump up and down or wiggle when excited. The puppet doesn’t need a working mouth for the kids to enjoy playing pretend. So focus on having fun!

4. Bubble Glazing

• White cardstock
• Tempera paint (washable and nontoxic)
• 1 small plastic cup for each color of paint
• 1 plastic straw for each color of paint (it can help to have a few extras on hand)
• Cover your work area with plastic, newspaper, or another covering—there’s a high chance of preschoolers spilling paint bubbles over the top of their cups during this activity.
• Set out a cup for each color of paint you want to use.
• In each cup, mix together ½ cup of water, a teaspoon of paint, and a big squirt of dish soap.
• Repeat until you have a cup for each of your colors.
• Let the kids stick a straw into a colored paint mixture, then blow into the straw. Bubbles should form pretty quickly.
• Have the kids keep blowing until the bubbles rise above the top edge of the cup.
• Ask each kid to put a sheet of paper on top of a cup, then pull it off. You should see a cool, colorful pattern created by the bubbles!
• Encourage the kids to try different ways of making bubble art—what happens if they use lots of different colors on one sheet of paper? What happens if they use the same color over and over again? This extra step helps kids develop the skill of scientific thinking. You can even introduce the term “hypothesis” as the kids make predictions about what will happen.

5. Sticker Collage

• Kid-favorite stencils (animals, magical creatures, vehicles, etc.)
• Construction paper
• Paper clips
• Lots of stickers

Before You Start

• Lay a stencil your kid will like (an animal, unicorn, spaceship, etc.) over the top of a piece of cardstock.
• Cut around the edges of the stencil, leaving an open space in the shape of the stencil in the cardstock. An adult should do this step (3- and 4-year-olds usually aren’t precise enough with scissors yet).
• Repeat with several stencils so the kids have options to choose from.

With Your Kids

• Have the kids pick out a piece of construction paper in a color they like.
• Show the kids the cardstock blanks you prepared earlier and let them pick one to use.
• Help the kids lay their blanks over their construction paper so that the paper shows through the open space in the cardstock, then anchor the blank in place with paper clips so it doesn’t move around as the kids work.
• Let the kids put as many stickers as they want on the construction paper through the cardstock blank.
• Remove the cardstock blank—now the kids have a sticker collage in the shape of one of their favorite things!
• Encourage the kids to get creative. What happens if they use multiple stencils on the same piece of paper? Can they still see the designs? Does it turn into a hodgepodge of stickers? Do they get a half-horse, half-bulldozer? What can they make?

6. Nature Collage

• Outdoor space to hunt for materials (or materials pre-collected by an adult)
• Pouches or containers for kids to store their materials in
• Contact paper
• Scissors, hole punch, string (optional)
• Explain to the kids that you’re making art collages out of natural materials. It can help to show them an example.
• Take the kids outside to hunt for materials.
• As the kids collect, have them put their materials into their pouches or containers.
• Head back inside and give each kid a piece of contact paper. Help them lay it face down and peel the backing off.
• Show the kids how to place their materials onto the sticky side of the contact paper.
• When the kids are finished placing their materials, help them lay a second piece of contact paper over the top, sticky side down, to seal their collage in place.
• Help them find somewhere to display their work!
• You may need to give some guidance on which materials work well (flowers, grass, leaves, and other small, flat, and light materials) and which don’t (rocks, sticks, and other large, round, or heavy materials).
• If you’re short on time or don’t have a good outdoor space, you can collect materials for the kids to work with ahead of time and explain where you found them.
• If you want, let the kids trim their collage into a unique shape once it’s finished, or punch a hole in it and thread a string through so that it can be hung as a decoration.

Other Ways to Get Creative with Begin

At Begin, we know supporting Creativity makes a huge difference in kids’ lives . We believe in it so much that we build opportunities for creative play into every stage of our comprehensive learning membership for kids 2–10 .

Whether kids are making collages and painting pictures in HOMER , exploring world art or making crafts in a Little Passports kit , or building their own video game levels in codeSpark , they’ll have plenty of research-backed, expert-designed chances to let their creativity flourish in every membership.

Take our quiz and find the right match for your child today !

Jody has a Ph.D. in Developmental Science and more than a decade of experience in the children’s media and early learning space.

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Dr. Jody Sherman LeVos

Chief Learning Officer at Begin

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17 Art Activities For Preschoolers: Painting, Crafting, Collage, And DIYs

April 16, 2024 //  by  Randi Smith

Break out the tissue paper, glue, scissors, and if you’re brave enough…glitter! It’s time to get crafting. This time of year is perfect for starting up fun art projects in the preschool classroom. Your preschoolers will love these art projects, and you’ll love seeing them build color recognition, fine motor skills, and more! Check out these 17 unique preschool art activities for inspiration.

1. Primary Colors Handprint Art

Preschoolers are all about color- the brighter the better! Get them going with a fun, and messy, primary colors handprint activity. Grab some tempera paint and cardstock and let your students experience a hands-on lesson on primary colors.

Learn More: Pinterest

2. Romero Britto-inspired Art 

Romero Britto is known for his bold lines and bright colors. Build early writing skills with a lesson on the different types of lines. Put them all together and make a funky art project for an upcoming holiday.

Learn More: Teach Starter

3. Crayon Resist Process Art

Dig out the seldom-used white crayons and engage your students in crayon-resist art. Have students draw pictures or designs on white paper, then paint over them with watercolor in their favorite colors. What a fun texture!

Learn More: Amsler Art Room

4. Straw Painting for Preschoolers

If you’ve got a holiday coming up that is known for fireworks, try straw painting with your preschoolers. To create this effect, drop a small dollop of washable paint on the student’s paper, then have them spread the paint into fireworks by blowing on it through a straw. What fun fireworks!

5. Art With Natural Materials

Take your preschoolers outside and go on an art supply scavenger hunt. Collect twigs, leaves, pebbles, and other natural materials. Use your newfound supplies to make fun animal art!

Learn More: Lakeshore School

6. Classic Art Projects Using Paper Plates

Grab a stack of cheap paper plates and make all sorts of fun things! Hats, monsters, fruits, and vegetables…you name it! There’s a paper plate project to match every theme!

Learn More: YouTube

7. Turn Bubble Wrap into a Piece of Art

Introduce your preschoolers to color and texture with a bubble wrap art project. Have them paint a base coat on their surface, then dip small pieces of bubble wrap into contrasting paint and dab them around. The outcome is a bright, three-dimensional work of art!

Learn More: Little Steam Learners

8. DIY Scratch Art Using Wax Crayons and Tempera Paint

Make your own DIY scratch art using simple wax crayons and black tempera. Color designs heavily on cardstock, then paint over the entire drawing using black tempera paint. When dry, students can use a craft stick to scratch fun designs into the paint, allowing their drawing to shine through.

Learn More: The Craft at Home Family

9. Craft a Pack of Paper Bag Puppets

Everyone loves paper bag puppets, and they’re so much fun to play with in the classroom. Grab a stack of brown lunch bags, some construction paper, and glue. Have students cut out shapes and pieces to make animals, monsters, and more! They could even use their puppets in a skit!

Learn More: Alpha Mom

10. Watercolor Salt Painting

White glue, table salt, and liquid watercolors are all the materials you need to make these beautiful salt paintings. To make, have students draw a design in liquid glue and sprinkle table salt to cover. Add a rainbow of colors using your watercolor paints. 

Learn More: I Heart Arts n Crafts

11. Pencil Shaving Art Flowers

Most teachers HATE pencil shavings, especially when they’re all over the floor. Instead of tossing them out, gather them up and let your students use their imaginations to turn them into artistic masterpieces. Just look at these pencil-shaving flowers!

Learn More: Easy DIY Craft Ideas

12. Creative Keepsake Rock Art

Smooth stones and some paint are all you need to create lovely rock art with your students. You could use acrylic paint or paint pens to have your preschoolers make their own adorable pet rocks.

Learn More: Four Cheeky Monkeys

13. Recycled Cardboard Tube Crafts

Teach your students about protecting the Earth by recycling materials normally thrown away. A bit of paint and some cardboard toilet paper tubes are all you need to make a mountain of fun creations.

Learn More: The Spruce Crafts

14. Fine Motor Torn Paper Collage

Torn paper collage is a must with your preschool students. You can provide them with an image to reference, or have them create their own designs using scrap paper. Collages almost always turn out beautifully, and they become easy homemade gifts with just a bit of lamination.

Learn More: Instagram

15. Rainbow Collage Ideas for Kids

Your preschoolers will love learning their colors while creating their own rainbow collage projects. Recycled cardboard templates, paints, paper, and pom-poms are just a few things you can use to craft these beautiful rainbows.

Learn More: Art Bar Blog

16. Tree Crafts using Pom-Poms

Pom-poms and clothespins make the perfect paintbrushes with this fun tree painting project. Give your learners a bit of paint to use, and they can craft the perfect fall tree. Or you can tie all four seasons together, and have them craft a tree for each season!

Learn More: Kids Activity Zone

17. Aluminum Foil Art

Simply switching your standard paper for a section of aluminum foil is a fun and easy way to create unique paintings with your four-year-olds. The different texture creates a new experience and provides young students with yet another way to work on those fine motor skills.

Learn More: Pickle Bums

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Printable Art Activities

These printable art activities blend hands-on learning with beloved stories, encouraging kids to explore their artistic side while deepening their connection to literature. These book-themed art projects are perfect for preschoolers, kindergarteners, and even first and second-graders.

Book Themed Art Projects for Kids

From dot art to color mixing, these activities encourage kids to think outside the box, experiment with materials, and develop their artistic abilities in a fun and engaging way. These projects will inspire creativity in any kid!

💡 Grab the free printable pack below.

Grade Level: These activities are recommended for children ages 3-7, making them suitable for preschool, kindergarten, and first grade. The open-ended nature of these projects ensures that kids of varying skill levels can participate and explore their creativity.

💡Note: The ideas and supplies are a starting point for your creativity. Go ahead and use the supplies you have on hand and let your kids add their own artistic flair!

Beautiful Oops by Barney Saltzberg

Activity: Turn Mistakes into Art

Materials Needed:

• A copy of the book “Beautiful Oops!” by Barney Saltzberg
• White and colored paper
• Tape or glue
• Markers/crayons

Description: This activity encourages kids to turn accidents and mistakes into beautiful artwork. Using techniques like ripping and repairing paper or transforming accidental smudges into designs, kids learn to embrace mistakes and think creatively. This project teaches a valuable lesson in resilience and problem-solving, reinforcing that mistakes can lead to beautiful outcomes.

Helpful Tip: Encourage kids to experiment freely. Guide them initially, but give them the autonomy to explore and transform their “oops” moments uniquely.

Extension Activity: Have the kids create an “Oops Art Journal” to collect their creative mistakes over time and see how they evolve into art. This ongoing project can be a great source of pride and self-expression.

Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson

Activity: Draw Your Own Adventure with a Purple Crayon

• A copy of “Harold and the Purple Crayon” by Crockett Johnson
• Purple crayons

Description: After reading this classic story, kids will use their purple crayons to create their own imaginative paths, just like Harold. This open-ended drawing activity encourages storytelling, creativity, and the freedom to explore their own ideas without restriction. Children can share their creations with the group afterward, further developing their communication and narrative skills.

Helpful Tip: For children who need a little inspiration, provide simple prompts like “What adventure would you go on with your purple crayon?” to spark their imagination.

Extension Activity: Create a large collaborative mural where each child adds their own purple crayon drawing to a group scene, allowing for a collective, imaginative adventure.

Ish by Peter H. Reynold

Activity: Creating “Ish” Art

• A copy of “Ish” by Peter H. Reynolds
• Drawing paper or sketchbooks
• Crayons, markers, or watercolor paints
• Optional: Objects from the book for inspiration (stars, fish, boats, etc.)

Description: This activity celebrates imperfection. Inspired by the story “Ish,” kids will create their own “-ish” versions of objects. Whether drawing “fish-ish” or “tree-ish,” kids are encouraged to let go of perfection and explore how their creativity can take shape in unique ways. The goal is to build confidence in their artistic abilities by focusing on the process rather than the outcome.

Helpful Tip: Remind kids there is no wrong way to create “-ish” art. Encourage them to embrace their individuality and enjoy the creative process.

Extension Activity: Set up an “Ish Gallery” where the children can display their art. Each kid can explain what their drawing represents, reinforcing the theme that everyone’s artwork is special and worthy of appreciation.

Mix It Up by Hervé Tullet

Activity: Interactive Color Mixing Art

• A copy of “Mix It Up” by Hervé Tullet
• Salt, cornstarch, water
• Liquid dish soap
• Gel food coloring

Description: This sensory-rich activity brings color mixing to life. Children will experiment with different colors using finger paints or ice cubes to blend and explore color theory. Through hands-on exploration, they learn how primary colors combine to form new hues, encouraging artistic experimentation and discovery.

Helpful Tip: Use a plastic tablecloth or newspaper to cover surfaces as this activity can get a little messy.

Extension Activity: Create a “Color Mixing Chart” where children record the colors they create. They can experiment with different ratios of primary colors and document their findings to bring home.

Press Here by Hervé Tullet

Activity: Create Dot Art!

• A copy of “Press Here” by Hervé Tullet
• Circular stickers, round sponges, jar lids, etc.

Description: Inspired by “Press Here,” children will create mixed-media dot art using circular objects or sponges dipped in paint. The activity allows for tactile exploration while reinforcing the concept of sequencing and storytelling through dot art.

Helpful Tip: Provide a variety of circular tools like sponge brushes, round stickers, and jar lids to give children plenty of choices for creating unique dot designs.

Extension Activity: Challenge children to create an entire scene or picture using only dots. Whether it’s an animal, landscape, or abstract design, this restriction encourages them to think creatively within boundaries.

The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds

Activity: Creating “Dot” Art

• A copy of “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds
• Playdough or clay
• Tools for cutting or sculpting dough (rolling pins, plastic knives, toothpicks)

Description: Inspired by the story of “The Dot,” children will use playdough to create dot-themed artworks. They can roll the dough into balls, flatten it into circles, or use cookie cutters to make different dot shapes. This activity reinforces the idea that anyone can be an artist by exploring dots in various forms. Children can mix colors, stack dots on top of each other, or use their fingers to create unique textures and patterns.

Helpful Tip: Offer a variety of tools and colors to give children the freedom to explore their own creativity. The tactile experience with playdough makes this activity particularly engaging for young learners.

Extension Activity: After completing their playdough dots, have children transform a dot drawing into something more. Provide them with a worksheet featuring a single dot in the middle of the page and challenge them to turn that dot into an object or scene, expanding on the theme of creativity from the story.

Free Printable Art Activities

Grab your free art activities pack [here] .

More Art Activities for Kids

• Explore preschool art activities
• Explore famous artists for kids
• Explore art projects (elementary age +)

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Open-ended Art Activities for Preschoolers: How-to & Benefits!

• Art Activities

Art classes for preschoolers often focus on coloring inside the lines, but open-ended art activities for preschoolers can help them learn about problem solving, experimentation, exploration, self-motivation and so much more. 

Imagine this:

You just spent your morning finding a great project, scouring the cupboards for supplies, getting everything set up, and putting together an art lesson that’s sure to engage your child for the next half hour…. Only for them to spend 5 minutes at the art table before walking away 🤦‍♀️ Does this sound familiar?

It can feel so disappointing and maybe even discourages you from wanting to try again. Instead of throwing in the towel, try an open-ended art activity that encourages more time spent making, inventing, and exploring. 

Enter stage right: open-ended art activities for preschoolers!

What are open-ended art activities for preschoolers?

Open-ended projects naturally encourage children to spend more time experimenting, engaging, and exploring without the pressure of creating a picture-perfect craft.

When there’s no specific end goal to achieve, they’ll push their thinking and expand on their ideas.

With open ended art, the end result is unique to the child, there are countless outcomes, each creation is a masterpiece, young children are engaged with problem-solving, creativity will bloom.

Not only that, you spend less time setting it up while your child is naturally engaged and self-motivated to create.

Why it is important to provide children with open-ended art experiences that focus on the process vs the product?

Open-ended art experiences encourage iterations. By encouraging children to make multiple versions, we empower them to create more freely and spend more time exploring different ways to use the same materials. 

What is an example of an open-ended art activity for preschoolers?

There are hundreds of ways to set up open ended art activities for preschoolers. I’ll share eight ideas here so you can start giving it a try today.

• Offer pencils and paper with an invitation to draw. Download one of our monthly drawing challenges for word-of-the-day prompts.
• Place yarn, glue, scissors and cardboard on the table and invite your child to create…anything they like.
• Cut a piece of paper into 4 sheets. Give your child a prompt such as “flower” or “rocket” and invite them to create something different on each sheet. For a little more guidance, try the four-section collage heart activity.
• Take a clipboard with paper plus crayons or markers outside. Invite your child to draw what they see.
• Set up loose parts like buttons, fabric pieces, pipe cleaners, and beads, along with clay or playdough for open ended sculpture and building. 
• Offer chalk, watercolor paper, a jar of water and brushes.
• Set up oil pastels, a small bowl of oil, watercolor paper, and a paint brush. The oil pastels can be blended with oil, a fun experiment and sensory exploration. See how we set this up in this Instagram post.
• Place leaves, glue, and brushes for Leaf and Glue Process Art.

Are there instructions with open-ended art activities for preschoolers?

With open ended art there are usually few instructions. A good way to introduce the art lesson is with a question or prompt like “I wonder what you can create with (name of the art materials)?” 

Look for our  “Wonder Wednesday” prompts  on the TinkerLab Instagram page for some fun ideas, and follow us each week for new ideas.

What are open-ended materials?

Open-ended art projects can be set up with a variety of materials. The trick is limiting options so kids don’t get overwhelmed. 

I like to think of setting up 2-D and 3-D projects when I consider a new open-ended art activity. 

Set up and open-ended 2-D projects

First choose a tools or two, such as crayons, tempera paint sticks, markers, pencils, or scissors. 

Then choose some sort of substrate such as tissue paper, watercolor paper, cardboard, or coffee filters.

Set this up on a covered surface to minimize the mess.

Here’s an example of a 2-D project using tape as the tool and paper as the substrate: Invitation to Create with Tape and Paper.

Set up and open-ended 3-D projects

Choose your 3-D material such as playdough, clay, cardboard tubes, wood scrap, or cereal box. 

Then add some treasures like feathers or pom poms, plus glue or tape. You could also offer tools like paint and brushes. 

Here’s an example with materials found in the recycling bin plus a low-heat glue gun: Found Object Junk Critters.

This is all about experimentation, both for you and your maker, so have fun exploring different material options.

How do you plan an open ended activity for preschoolers?

Focus on play: Approach art and maker time from a play-based mindset. When children are having fun, trying new things, and exploring their materials, they’ll want to stay at the table longer. Follow their Curiosities: Children are naturally curious creatures, so finding activities that inspire their curiosity instills the intrinsic motivation that keeps that making and creating for hours. Not sure what they’re curious about? Spend a few days jotting down what you notice them noticing. Maybe they’re really into bugs, rocks, or the ocean. Then, find ideas based on those interests. Finally, remember that sometimes kids just aren’t that into making, and that’s okay. It’s important that they engage in art and making when they want to, instead of feeling forced into it. If you can, leave the supplies out and see if they come back to it later.

[…] Open-ended Art Activities for Preschoolers: How-to & Benefits! […]

[…] Open-ended Art Activities for Preschoolers: How to and Benefits […]

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12 Most Fun Art Activities for Preschoolers

• By MontessoriAcademy
• June 17, 2022
• No Comments

This is a fun way to stimulate the interest of a preschooler. Make their finger paintings lovely by using various hues of paint. Give them a drawing pad and let them draw any object they come up with. It can be messy work, but it is a great hands-on activity.

The idea is to make it fun for the kids and keep them interested in the activity. During this process, the preschoolers learn how to use their fingers and hands creatively and enjoy the process of making art.

• Supplies: Paint of all colors, two pieces of paper, and one drawing pad.
• Give the child a clean paper and a piece of paper with paint.
• Ask the child to place his hand on the paper and make a print of it on the form. Let the children play with different colors of paints.
• Let them mix colors in their paints to make new shades or use all one color for painting their fingerprints. 
• Give them a drawing pad and ask them to draw anything they like with their prints.

3. Painting with Coffee Filters

Coffee filters  are accessible and inexpensive. And since they are reusable indefinitely, they are ideal for a preschool art project. You can use them to create beautiful crafts. You can even give the children a template and let them trace the design on their cups. They’ll have a blast making decorations out of coffee filters!

• Supplies: coffee filters and paint.
• Procedure: Let your child take cups, paint, and glue to make their design. Encourage the kids to use different colors.

4. Tissue Paper Collage

Tissue paper  is an excellent art medium. It is inexpensive and easy to use. Use pieces of tissue paper to create pictures with the help of an adult. This may also be a fun craft activity for preschoolers.

This activity uses small pieces of tissue paper with which to make a collage. The preschooler can determine how large their picture will be and how much they’ll use to create it. They may need your assistance in gluing the tissue to a piece of paper.

• Supplies: Glue stick, tissue paper, paintbrush, and an old book or a piece of paper.
• Procedure: 
• Collect the materials and help your child cut out all the pieces of tissue paper.
• Give them a template, and let them trace the shapes on the tissue paper.
• Let them decorate their book with tissue paper pictures.
• Use a glue stick to attach the images to the book’s pages. 
• Cut out all the pages and connect them using a glue stick on a piece of paper. 

5. Paper Plate Weaving

This is another interesting art project you want to try with the preschoolers.  Using paper plates , you can create a cute weaving pattern. Let them be creative and add as many stripes and colors to their paper plate weaving as they like. This can be an excellent craft idea for toddlers too.

• Supplies: Paper plates, paint, glue stick, and colorful yarns.
• Procedure:  
• Let your child paint paper plates with different colors of paint.
• Let them make a weaving by interweaving the yarns on the plate. Let them be creative and use as many colors and patterns as they like. 
• Let them draw designs on the plate while they are weaving.

6. Color Collage

A  color collage  is another fun art project for preschoolers. This activity involves using different colors and shapes of paper to create a beautiful picture. You can use this activity to provide hands-on opportunities for the children to develop their fine motor skills while engaging in an exciting project.

• Supplies: Glue stick, colored paper, and scissors.
• Collect the materials and cut out different shapes from colored papers.
• Let them glue the forms on the other sides of a piece of paper.
• Help them cut and paste various shapes using brilliant colors and patterns.

7. Balloon Prints

Balloon prints are made with balloons and paint. Warm-up your shoes and help the children make balloon prints on a piece of paper. This is an exciting way to use balloons in creating art. It’s also fun to use your child’s imagination and creativity.

• Supplies: Balloons, paint, paper, and a glue stick.
• Use a glue stick to attach the balloons to a paper.
• Let them paint the balloon with different colors and patterns.
• Let them use their imagination and create a unique design on their balloon print.

8. Watercolor Resist Art

Watercolor resists art and is an excellent medium for preschoolers. The children can  explore their artistic development and expression  through this craft. It’s a fun way to create murals with watercolor painting resist sheets.

Watercolor resist sheets are available in the market in different colors and sizes. You can even make your watercolor resists from tissue paper or cardboard sheets. This is an excellent activity for children who like to paint and draw, as they become creative in creating their artworks using this medium.

• Supplies: Watercolor paint, watercolor resist sheets and a tray. 
• Help the children paint their artwork on a piece of paper.
• Let them use the watercolor resist sheet and make a mural.
• Encourage them to be innovative and imaginative while making their mural by adding several shapes of whatever they like.
• Attach it to the wall or any place you want it to be permanent.

9. Ice Paint

Making ice paint is a fantastic and creative art activity perfect for preschoolers. Children can try this activity to explore their creativity and learn about the different colors. You can have an ice-great cold face painting session with the kids. Children will love playing with it and creating their first painting.

• Supplies: Watercolor paint, a tray, paintbrush, and paper.
• Get an ice cube tray and fill it with watercolor paint.
• With a paintbrush, apply the paint to the paper.
• Put plastic wrap over the form and freeze until you have solid paint sheets.
• For an extra sparkly effect, add glitter or glue!

10. Make Your Musical Instrument

Doing an instrument project is a great way to play with musical instruments and learn how they work. This can also be a fun art activity for preschoolers. Using various materials, they can make their drum, guitar, and even piano.

• Supplies: Plastic material, cardboard scissors, tape, paper, and a glue stick.
• Procedures:
• Collect the materials needed and help the children cut out a square from a plastic material.
• Let them decorate it by adding shapes and paint. 
• Cut out a long tape and secure the plastic material to cardboard. 
• Assist the children in binding their instruments to the cardboard.
• Let them use their imagination and create their very own instrument!

11. Recycled Art

Art made out of  recycled items  is a unique way to preserve waste materials. While this activity is not traditional art, it helps children learn the importance of conservation and the environment. They can practice their creative skills by using fewer resources and making something useful from plastic bags, old newspapers, and CDs.

• Supplies: Glue stick, cutout template, coloring books or magazines, paper or construction paper, and felt-tip pens or paintbrushes.
• Collect the materials needed for making recycled art. 
• Follow the suggested steps in making the cutout and decorate it with a glue stick.
• Cut art from a coloring book or newspaper and paste it on the template. 
• Encourage children to be creative and imaginative while doing this craft.

12. Drawing Games

Drawing games are a great way to encourage kids to draw, which is an integral part of a child’s development. Drawing activities can also help kids  develop their fine motor skills  and creativity. The following are some ideas for drawing games that you can try with your preschooler!

• Picture This! – Give each child a piece of paper, and have them draw something on it with crayons or markers. When they’re done, have them show it off to the class by lining up their drawings along one wall or across the floor. You may even want to invite other adults in the neighborhood who don’t have children at home to check out all the different pictures!
• Let’s Color – Divide your students into pairs or small groups (depending on how many kids are in your classroom). Give each team an assortment of colored pencils; then tell them they need to color all over their partner’s body using only those colors—no white allowed!

Final Thoughts

Doing art with preschoolers is an incredible experience for both teachers and students. It opens up a whole new world of opportunities for children to improve their art skills. And the best part is, it can be done right in your classroom!

Do you have some ideas for what to do with your preschoolers? Have you decided to start an art activity program in your school, or would you like to incorporate art into other classroom-based activities?  Montessori Academy  is the perfect place to begin your search!

We offer a wide selection of art and music products and teaching resources to take your preschool art program to the next level. Aiming to incorporate art into your daily classroom activities can be tricky. Still, it’s a great way to jumpstart the process and introduce art as an integrated part of your daily curriculum.

Read more about our art and music products and teaching resources.  Contact us today  to get started!

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Happy Hooligans

Crafts and Activities for Toddlers and Preschoolers to Tweens

25+ Awesome Art Projects for Toddlers and Preschoolers

Last updated on October 28, 2019

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Tired of doing the same old preschool art activities with your kids and students? Here are 25+ AWESOME art projects for Toddlers and Preschoolers  to do at home, daycare or preschool.

It’s no secret that the toddlers and preschoolers in my daycare love creating art!  Naturally, they enjoy regular, everyday art like painting, and colouring with markers, crayons and chalk, but we always have the most fun when we’re doing a cool art project , exploring unusual substances and materials like (shaving cream, melted wax, food colouring), and using creative techniques (resist art, print making and, smoosh painting) to make our art.

Thankfully, there are countless materials and tools right in your own home to create really cool art with your children.  These unusual materials, tools and techniques will allow your kids to explore, create and learn in ways that they can’t with just a box of crayons or markers.  Don’t worry though.  They’re all easy!

Today, I’m sharing over 25 of my favourite easy art techniques for kids!  I think you and your kids will love them all.  My toddlers and preschoolers have really enjoyed each one, but older kids will love the techniques and the projects in this post as well.

Put away those paintbrushes and pallets.  These are not your ordinary art projects.

From resist art to sensory art, to dripping and ripping, you’ll find plenty of unusual ways for your kids to create art in ways they’ve never dreamed of.

Each of the activities described here contains a click-able link which will take you to the step-by-step instructions.  Just click on the coloured, underlined text.

25 Easy, Awesome Art Projects for Toddlers and Preschoolers

Make a gorgeous “tie-dyed” bookmark with Sharpies and rubbing alcohol !  Great fine-motor exercise and a super homemade gift for kids to give a parent, grandparent or teacher!

Toddlers and Preschoolers will love “shaking up” a colourful masterpiece with this fun and energetic  golf ball painting process !

Sharpies are the star again in this simple “stained-glass” art project .  You’ll never guess what we coloured on to get such glossy, vibrant results.

Take your sidewalk chalk art to a new level with a little dipping pot of water!

The hooligans spent ages exploring water absorption and strengthening their fine-motor skills with this drip-art technique .

Older kids can use the same process to make these City Skyline Silhouette s,

and these Tie-Dyed Heart Sun Catchers.

Here’s a great warm-weather art project!  Little ones will love  painting with coloured ice outdoors on a sunny summer day.

One of our absolute favourites!  To make homemade puffy paint , all you need are 3 kitchen ingredients and a microwave!

Dyeing coffee filters is always popular with the hooligans.  See how we used ours to make a pretty paper plate wreath.

Your child can stamp up a one-of-a-kind piece of art for his or her bedroom using a thrift shop canvas and some cardboard rolls.  And for Valentines, you can tweak the process a little and stamp a canvas full of hearts. 

Scratch Art is one of those classic art projects that every kid loves.  Remember doing scratch art when YOU were a kid?  Here, we’ve made a family portrait to give to a parent or grandparent.

Spin painting is a very cool process for kids to do at home or in the classroom.  All you need is a salad spinner!

Turn your toilet roll tubes into stamps for some print-making.  Your child can frame this stamped heart art project or hang it on a bedroom wall.

If you’ve never tried  colouring on tin foil with Sharpies before, you must!  It’s such a slick feeling, and the iridescent colours that result are beautiful.  We the process to decorate personalized name plaques.

Without a doubt, melting crayons to make Van Gogh’s Starry Night art is one of my all-time favourite art processes for kids.

See how we turned an old thrift shop painting into a custom piece of art for our playroom using this mess-free smoosh painting technique!

Make your own gift wrap in a matter of seconds using this awesome hair-dryer painting process !

These cork-stamped flowers were my very favourite spring art project this year.  Not only because they’re so pretty, but because they’re so versatile!  You can use this technique to make homemade cards and wrapping paper or to embellish a wreath or a  tote-bag!

Cotton-pad art teaches kids about water absorption and colour blending, and the process helps develop fine motor skills.

This “big art” post  is chock-full of ways for a little one to explore a variety of painting tools on a large art surface on the floor.

Tape resist art is so much fun!  It’s simple enough for toddlers to enjoy, and older kids will appreciate the cool results.

Scrape painting is another one of my all-time favourite art techniques for kids.  The process is easy yet fascinating, and the results are always just beautiful!

Kids who enjoy messy play will love this sensory art process !  It’s fun for one, and also a great group activity for the backyard.

This salt, glue and watercolour process was a really neat (and gorgeous) way to work on letter and name recognition.

Crayon resist art is always a hit with kids of all ages!  Even I can’t resist a good resist-art project!

Transform your driveway art with this simple chalk and water technique !

Paint a perfect rainbow every time with this nifty art technique!

And lastly, here are three of my all-time favourite art techniques for kids:

Creating stained glass art with bottle lids and washable paint.

Making marbleized prints with shaving cream and food colouring .

Creating beautiful Monet-like art with markers and paper towels .

Pour painting is a TON of fun.  We’ve made Christmas ornaments this way, and most recently, these stunning paper weights for Father’s Day.

Painting with frozen, coloured paint pops is always fun on a summer day too!

Make marbled paper with shaving cream and food colouring !  It’s SUCH a cool process!

And if you’re looking for another collection of terrific art projects for kids, check out these 30 Art Techniques from Buggy and Buddy !

More Cool and Creative Activities for Kids:

Easy science Experiments for Toddlers

Homemade Paint Recipes for Kids

Disney’s “Frozen” Crafts, Activities and Recipes

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Jackie is a mom, wife, home daycare provider, and the creative spirit behind Happy Hooligans. She specializes in kids’ crafts and activities, easy recipes, and parenting. She began blogging in 2011, and today, Happy Hooligans inspires more than 2 million parents, caregivers and Early Years Professionals all over the globe.

Reader Interactions

Cynthia Le Bourlegat

August 4, 2014 at 11:38 am

Hi Jackie, I love you blog! I’ll be glad if you wish know my brazilian blog of kids activities and crafts http://www.falamae.com .

September 9, 2014 at 7:56 am

Thank you for putting this all together in one post! Will be passing on to other parents. (Might try some myself!) 🙂

happyhooligans

September 9, 2014 at 11:52 am

You’re so welcome, Karen! Thanks for passing it along! Keep your eye on my blog. I plan to do a big round up of actual art projects for preschoolers too. 🙂

preschool projects

September 10, 2014 at 7:45 am

Wow what a beautiful collection. Thanks for sharing will try to do some of them with my daughter.

Marianne Botting

September 27, 2014 at 3:06 pm

As a mum of a toddler who is not a fan of paintbrushes, I am very grateful for this round-up. Thanks! I will definitely be sharing with my readers

September 27, 2014 at 10:37 pm

So glad you enjoyed it, Marianne! Thanks for passing it along. 🙂

August 25, 2015 at 3:07 pm

A brilliant list, and I picked up a few new ideas to try at the nursery next term 🙂 We also found the children love painting dots with blocks wrapped in bubble wrap! Great fun which can also lead to colour mixing, and the language of size if you have bubbles of different sizes like we did!

October 26, 2015 at 10:50 pm

I love commas too, but you’re completely over-using them.

October 27, 2015 at 6:33 am

Oh my. You are absolutely right! How has no-one pointed that out before? Not sure what I was thinking when I wrote that post. Haha. I’ve just gone back and removed about a dozen of them. Thanks!

Rosa Marrio

November 6, 2017 at 1:35 pm

Wow! amazing idea. This kind of creative art project encourages kids creativity and helps kids mental growth.

Glenn Mathis

April 6, 2018 at 3:27 am

Fantastic activity. I really wonder indoor activity for my kids. Then I choose the Daycare center. I really like your blog. Keep sharing.

Lyla Morris

September 14, 2018 at 1:41 am

Thanks for providing us such an informational post. personally, I’m a Big fan of art activity and It’s always a fun with my son.

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Preschool Crafts: 20 Easy and Simple Ideas Using Everyday Materials

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Arts and crafts not only provide endless fun and entertainment but also offer significant developmental benefits for young children. Through craft activities, preschoolers can explore their imagination, enhance fine motor skills, develop cognitive abilities, and express themselves creatively. Plus, since most preschool crafts require everyday materials that aren’t hard to find, it doesn’t take much to get the creative juices flowing. 

In this article, we'll explore a variety of simple and engaging preschool crafts to try with your children.

Why are arts and crafts important for child development? 

Arts and crafts play a crucial role in a child's development, providing them with countless benefits that extend beyond creating something visually appealing. Let's explore some of the ways in which engaging in arts and crafts activities can positively impact a child's growth and development:

Enhancing fine motor skills

Craft activities often involve using small materials such as beads, scissors, and paintbrushes, which require precise hand movements. By manipulating these materials, preschoolers can improve their fine motor skills , including hand-eye coordination, finger dexterity, and grip strength. These skills are crucial for tasks like writing, tying shoelaces, and buttoning clothes.

Encouraging creativity and imagination

Arts and crafts provide an outlet for children to unleash their creativity and imagination . When engaged in open-ended projects, such as painting or building with blocks, preschoolers have the freedom to explore their ideas and express themselves. This process fosters critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to think outside the box.

Promoting self-expression

Crafting allows children to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a non-verbal way. Through their creations, they can express their emotions, tell stories, and share their unique perspectives. This promotes self-expression, emotional development, and a sense of self-identity.

Developing cognitive skills

Engaging in arts and crafts activities stimulates various cognitive skills in preschoolers. From recognizing colors and shapes to understanding patterns and sequences, crafting promotes cognitive development . It also enhances visual-spatial awareness, mathematical thinking, and logical reasoning, laying a solid foundation for academic success.

Boosting confidence and self-esteem

Completing a craft project, whether it's a simple drawing or a more complex sculpture, gives children a sense of accomplishment and pride in their abilities. This boosts their self-esteem, confidence, and belief in their own capabilities. Additionally, positive feedback and encouragement from parents, caregivers, and teachers during the crafting process further enhance a child's self-confidence.

Fostering social skills

Crafting can be a collaborative activity, providing opportunities for children to engage in social interactions and develop important social skills . When working on group projects, preschoolers learn to take turns, cooperate, share materials, and communicate effectively. These skills are essential for building friendships, resolving conflicts, and thriving in social settings.

Enhance program quality with brightwheel's Experience Curriculum , a complete curriculum system that includes digital lessons in the brightwheel app paired with a kit of hands-on materials delivered monthly. You'll receive thematic lessons with day-by-day lesson plans and materials like storybooks, manipulatives, games, art projects, music, and more that can help you cut down on hours of prep.

20 best preschool crafts 

If you need a little inspiration for your class, here are some easy preschool crafts using simple materials that also offer plenty of opportunities for growth and self-expression.

1. DIY stamps

Preschoolers can make stamps of flowers or their name initials using common items like plastic bottle caps or corks. Simply glue some foam pieces to the ends and let your children use them to stamp patterns or designs on paper.

2. Washi tape paper plates

You can create many things with paper plates—the possibilities are endless. This washi tape paper plate craft helps in teaching children more about colors. The cutting and sticking process also improves a child’s fine motor skills.

3. Clothespin dragonflies

This craft is fun and easy to make using clothespins, pipe cleaners, and googly eyes. This craft involves painting, coloring, and gluing, which improve a child’s hand-eye coordination skills.

4. Melted bead suncatchers

Preschoolers will love making these bead suncatchers. This craft includes sorting colored beads and melting them. It’s a good activity for learning about colors and is also an introduction to the science of melting. When the suncatchers are ready, children can hang them outside to catch the morning sunlight. 

5. Soda bottle flower stamping

This is an excellent way to reuse plastic water bottles before recycling them. Choose bottles with a flowery bottom and dip them in tempera paint. Next, stamp them on a piece of paper and repeat the process to form a design. You can also encourage children to draw patterns in between the shapes. This craft can be a great conversation starter about the importance of recycling.

6. Painted pasta necklace

Preschoolers will love customizing their necklaces and wearing them. They get to use their favorite colors, choose the design, and even add some art or their name initials. The painting process is simple and children can practice their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills by threading the dry pasta onto string or yarn.

7. Rainbow tree

This excellent craft teaches children how to repurpose things or give items a new life. You’ll need a dry stick and some paint. We recommend rainbow colors, but you can let your preschoolers choose the colors they want in their art. They can carry these sticks home, put them in a container full of soil, or add them to their backyard décor.

8. DIY caterpillar dreamcatcher

This caterpillar-shaped dreamcatcher is perfect for children of all ages. All you’ll need for the craft is play dough lids or paper cut in circular shapes for the caterpillar body. Use pipe cleaners for the caterpillar antennae and legs. When finished, stick the dreamcatcher to a window to catch the light.

9. Outdoor name art

We mostly refer to drawing or painting on a table when we talk about art. This outdoor art activity is a different way to experience art. For this project, you’ll need to write your child’s name on a huge piece of paper (or you can use a cardboard box) and stick it somewhere outside. 

Provide them with different paint colors and allow them to decorate it. This craft not only boosts their creativity but also helps familiarize them with letters and the spelling of their name. 

10. Paper towel art

This craft improves your preschooler’s fine motor skills and teaches them about color blending and absorption. This activity is also a great example of process art because there are no rules on how preschoolers should scribble on the paper towels. Encourage them to come up with their own individual designs. 

11. Sponge painting

Using paint brushes can be cumbersome and stressful for beginners. This activity is perfect for preschoolers who aren’t good with paint brushes yet. It improves a child’s hand coordination and fine motor skills and makes their color-mixing experience easier. To sponge paint, all you need to do is attach a clothespin to a sponge and get painting. 

12. Little pebble monsters

For this activity, collect smooth, flat stones and paint them solid bright colors. Add some dots for eyes and allow children to create different expressions by painting mouths, teeth, spots, or other patterns. You can then take this opportunity to discuss different emotions with your preschoolers. 

13. Toilet paper roll binoculars

Toilet paper rolls are one of the main items used for DIY projects—there is so much you can do with them. As you make the binoculars, you can introduce the preschoolers to the concept of recycling. 

Once the binoculars are ready, you can play pretend with your preschoolers and name the birds you “see” in the park and what they’re doing. This craft improves a child’s hand-eye coordination and literacy skills.

14. Can binoculars

This is an upgrade for preschoolers who are outgrowing the toilet paper roll crafts. If your toddler is a craft beginner, you can use a toilet roll instead of a can. 

Painting the cans, stapling them together, and adding a neck strap is good for hand-eye coordination. This activity also improves a child’s language development as they play make-believe with their new toy. For example, you can ask them what animal they're seeing or what they're hunting.

15. Popsicle stick kitty

This popsicle stick kitty craft involves drawing, painting, scissor work, and decorating. It’ll help your preschooler improve their scissor and hand coordination skills. 

16. Leaf prints

This is another nature-inspired craft your preschooler will love. They can make a nature collage using paint and real leaves. All you need to do is to collect leaves of different shapes and sizes. Dip one side in the paint and press it on a white canvas. 

To make this art colorful, consider using different colored paints. As for the arrangement, let your children decide the design they want. 

17. Craft stick snakes

This is a great craft for preschoolers just starting to learn about the animal kingdom. The only supplies you need to get started are wooden craft sticks and colored markers. Let your preschoolers color any pattern they like and then add some googly eyes and a paper tongue.

18. Pool noodle boats

Using a few basic supplies like a pool noodle and paper sails, you can make small craft sailboats that your preschoolers can race in a kiddy pool or bath. Cut a pool noodle into two inch slices and have children decorate the sails. Add the sails to the noodle slice with a wooden skewer to complete the boat. Let the race begin!

19. Handprint sunflower

This is an easy-to-make dollar-store craft that’s perfect for summer and fall. Trace children’s hand prints on yellow construction paper and cut them out. Glue them to the end of a popsicle stick. Add leaves and a circle shape in the middle to complete the flower.

20. Magnet painting

This craft mixes art and science as children learn about how magnets work and color mixing. Follow these instructions to get started.

Let the fun begin 

Arts and crafts are a fun and easy way to support children’s learning while boosting their self-expression and confidence. From enhancing fine motor skills to promoting creativity, crafting plays a vital role in their physical, cognitive, social-emotional development.

Remember, there is no right or wrong way of doing art. While these easy preschool crafts have simple instructions and materials, anything goes when your child is creating. It’s their personal touch (and mess) that makes their work unique.

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22 Magical Winter Art Activities for Preschoolers

Winter is a magical season filled with snowflakes, cozy moments by the fire, and plenty of opportunities for creativity.

Engaging preschoolers in art activities during the winter months can be both fun and educational.

From exploring textures to creating winter-themed masterpieces, these easy winter art activities will keep your little ones entertained and help develop their fine motor skills.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, here are simple and enjoyable winter art activities for preschoolers will love.

Winter Nature Collage:

Take your preschoolers on a winter nature walk and gather materials such as pinecones, twigs, and dried leaves. Back indoors, provide them with a large sheet of paper and some glue. Encourage them to create a winter-themed collage using the natural materials they collected. They can arrange the pinecones to resemble snow-covered trees, use twigs to form snowflake shapes, and add colorful leaves for a touch of seasonal beauty. This activity not only allows them to explore textures and shapes but also fosters an appreciation for the natural world during the winter season.

Snowy Salt Dough Creations:

Combine equal parts flour, salt, and water to create a simple salt dough. Give each preschooler a small portion and invite them to shape it into winter-themed objects like snowmen, snowflakes, or mittens. Once they’ve molded their creations, let them air dry or bake them according to the dough instructions. Afterward, provide paints and brushes, and encourage the children to decorate their salt dough creations with vibrant colors. This activity promotes sensory exploration, fine motor skills, and creativity while embracing the winter theme.

Related: 20 Best Letter E Activities for Preschoolers

Winter Puffy Paint:

Engage your preschoolers in a sensory art experience with winter-themed puffy paint. In a bowl, mix equal parts shaving cream and white glue until well combined. Divide the mixture into smaller containers and add a few drops of different-colored food coloring to each container. Provide the children with brushes or cotton swabs and let them explore the texture and create their own winter masterpieces on dark-colored paper. As the puffy paint dries, it will create a three-dimensional effect, resembling fluffy snow. This activity encourages sensory development and allows children to experiment with texture and color.

Melting Snowman Science Experiment:

Combine art and science by conducting a melting snowman experiment with your preschoolers. Give each child a small plastic cup or jar and instruct them to build a snowman inside using cotton balls. Once their snowmen are complete, provide them with pipettes or droppers and fill a separate cup with warm water. Encourage the children to “melt” their snowmen by adding warm water drop by drop. As they observe the snowmen dissolving, they can create a winter-themed watercolor painting using the colors from the melting snowman. This activity promotes scientific observation and understanding while fostering creativity.

Related: 20 Amazing Relay Race Ideas With No Equipment

Winter Shadow Tracing:

On a sunny winter day, take your preschoolers outside and find an open area where the sunlight casts clear shadows. Provide large sheets of paper, and pencils, and encourage the children to trace the shadows of trees, buildings, or any other winter objects they find interesting. Afterward, invite them to embellish their shadow tracings with crayons, markers, or paints to create a winter landscape filled with their own imaginative touches. This activity not only encourages artistic expression but also helps children develop observational skills as they study and recreate the shapes and forms they see in the winter sunlight.

Winter Salt Painting:

Invite your preschoolers to explore the magic of salt painting. Provide them with a sheet of dark-colored construction paper, liquid watercolors, and a container of salt. Instruct them to create winter-themed designs on paper using liquid watercolors, then sprinkle salt over the wet paint. As the paint dries, the salt will create a crystallized texture, resembling sparkling snowflakes. This activity combines art, science, and sensory play, as children observe the reaction between the salt and paint while creating beautiful winter artwork.

Snowy Sensory Bag:

Create a sensory experience for your preschoolers with a snowy sensory bag. Fill a large resealable plastic bag with hair gel or clear hand sanitizer. Add small winter-themed objects such as plastic snowflakes, miniatures, and glitter. Seal the bag tightly and tape the edges to secure it. Encourage the children to press and move their fingers on the bag, creating a tactile and visual representation of a winter scene. This activity promotes sensory exploration, fine motor skills, and imaginative play as children manipulate the objects within the bag.

Winter Ice Sculptures:

Take advantage of freezing temperatures by engaging your preschoolers in ice sculpture art. Fill different-sized containers with water and add drops of liquid watercolor or food coloring to each one for vibrant hues. Place a string with a looped end into each container, leaving the loop sticking out. Place the containers outside or in a freezer to let the water freeze. Once the ice blocks are solid, remove them from the containers and encourage the children to arrange and stack them to create their own unique ice sculptures. This activity combines art, science, and imaginative play as children explore the properties of water and experiment with different forms and structures.

Winter-themed Sensory Bottles:

Create mesmerizing sensory bottles with a winter theme. Fill clear plastic bottles with water, glitter, small plastic snowflakes, and beads. Optionally, add a few drops of blue food coloring to enhance the wintery effect. Seal the bottles tightly, ensuring they are securely closed. Invite the preschoolers to shake, tilt, and turn the bottles, observing the swirling glitter and objects within. This activity promotes visual stimulation, fine motor skills, and sensory exploration as children engage with the captivating sensory bottles.

Snowflake Resist Art:

Introduce your preschoolers to the concept of resist art using a winter snowflake theme. Provide each child with a sheet of white paper, a white crayon, and watercolors. Instruct them to use the white crayon to draw snowflake shapes, lines, and patterns on the paper. Once they have finished, give them watercolors to paint over the paper. As they paint, the crayon marks will resist the watercolor, revealing the hidden snowflake designs. This activity encourages creativity, and fine motor skills, and introduces the concept of resist techniques in art.

Winter Ice Cube Sculptures:

Enhance your preschoolers’ sensory and fine motor skills with ice cube sculptures. Fill ice cube trays with water and add a few drops of liquid watercolors or food coloring to each section for vibrant hues. Place small plastic toys or objects (such as miniature animals or winter-themed figurines) into the trays, making sure they are partially submerged in the water. Freeze the trays overnight. The next day, pop out the colorful ice cubes and provide your preschoolers with a tray or large container. Encourage them to build and create sculptures using the ice cubes, stacking them and arranging them in various ways. As the ice cubes melt, the colors will mix and create a beautiful sensory experience.

Snowy Glitter Jars:

Spark your preschoolers’ imagination with snowy glitter jars. Fill clear plastic jars or bottles with water, leaving some empty space at the top. Add glitter, sequins, and tiny plastic snowflakes to the water. Secure the lids tightly, ensuring they are sealed. The children can shake the jars and watch as the glitter and snowflakes swirl and settle, creating a mesmerizing snowy effect. This activity promotes visual stimulation, and sensory exploration, and provides a calming sensory experience for the little ones.

Winter Salt Dough Ornaments:

Engage your preschoolers in the process of making winter-themed salt dough ornaments. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of salt, and 1/2 cup of water to create the dough. Provide winter-themed cookie cutters (such as snowflakes or mittens) and let the children cut out shapes from the dough. Use a straw or toothpick to create a small hole near the top of each shape for hanging. Bake the ornaments according to the dough instructions and allow them to cool. Provide paints and brushes for the preschoolers to decorate their ornaments with vibrant colors and add glitter or sequins for extra sparkle. Once dry, thread a string or ribbon through the hole and hang the ornaments as winter decorations.

Winter Snowy Collage:

Encourage your preschoolers to create a winter-themed collage using various materials. Provide blue construction paper as the base and offer materials such as cotton balls, white tissue paper, silver foil, and glitter. Let the children tear the tissue paper into small pieces and crumple them to create snow-like textures. They can glue the cotton balls, tissue paper, foil, and glitter onto the blue paper to form a snowy landscape. This open-ended activity allows children to explore textures, develop fine motor skills, and create their own winter scenes.

Frozen Painted Snowflakes:

Combine the magic of freezing temperatures and art by creating frozen painted snowflakes. Give each child a snowflake-shaped cookie cutter or mold and place it on a tray or baking sheet. Fill the cookie cutter with liquid watercolors in different colors, allowing the colors to mix and blend within the shape. Place the tray or sheet in the freezer until the watercolors are completely frozen. Once frozen, remove the cookie cutters to reveal colorful frozen snowflakes. Provide the children with a large sheet of paper and let them place the frozen snowflakes on the paper. As the snowflakes melt, they will create beautiful watercolor patterns on the paper, resulting in a unique winter artwork.

Winter Texture Rubbings:

Encourage your preschoolers to explore textures with winter-themed rubbings. Provide various textured materials such as bumpy paper, corrugated cardboard, and textured fabric. Place a winter-themed stencil or cutout on a sheet of white paper and instruct the children to place it on a textured surface. Using crayons or colored pencils, they can gently rub over the stencil, revealing the texture underneath. They can experiment with different textures and colors to create a collection of winter-inspired rubbings.

Snowy Winter Mural:

Create a collaborative snowy winter mural with your preschoolers. Tape a large sheet of butcher paper or mural paper to a wall or table. Provide an array of art materials such as tempera paints, markers, colored pencils, and crayons. Encourage the children to use their imagination and creativity to paint or draw a winter scene on the mural. They can add snow-covered trees, snowflakes, winter animals, and anything else that represents the winter season. This activity promotes collaboration, and artistic expression, and allows children to contribute to a collective artwork.

Winter Sensory Playdough:

Engage your preschoolers in sensory play with homemade winter-themed playdough. Prepare a batch of playdough by mixing 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of salt, 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, and 1.5 cups of boiling water. Divide the dough into smaller portions and add different shades of blue and white food coloring to each portion. Provide the children with playdough and winter-themed cookie cutters, plastic snowflakes, or winter animal figurines. They can mold, shape, and create their own winter scenes using sensory playdough.

Winter Shadow Puppet Theater:

Encourage imaginative storytelling with a winter shadow puppet theater. Create a simple puppet theater by attaching a white sheet or large piece of white fabric to a doorway or window frame. Use a table or small box to elevate a light source behind the sheet, such as a lamp or flashlight. Provide your preschoolers with winter-themed shadow puppet templates or help them create their own using black construction paper. After they have cut out the shapes, attach the puppets to craft sticks or straws. Encourage the children to use their puppets to tell winter-themed stories or act out scenes in the shadow theater. This activity promotes creativity, storytelling, and dramatic play.

Winter Watercolor Resist:

Introduce your preschoolers to the concept of resist art with a winter watercolor resist activity. Provide each child with a white sheet of paper, a white crayon, and watercolor paints. Instruct them to use the white crayon to draw winter-themed designs such as snowflakes, icicles, or a winter landscape on paper. Once they have finished, provide them with watercolor paints to apply over the paper. As they paint, the wax from the crayon will resist the watercolors, creating a beautiful contrast between the colored background and the white crayon designs. This activity promotes fine motor skills, and creativity, and introduces the concept of resist techniques in art.

Recommended:

• 24 Fun Small Group Activities for Preschoolers
• 22 Polar Bear Art & Craft for Preschoolers
• 25 Amazing Technology Activities for Preschoolers

Rubina Numan

Rubina Numan, a seasoned Instructional Designer, is renowned for innovative, learner-centered experiences merging pedagogy with technology. With a BSc (IDT) from the University of Huddersfield , she holds over a decade of experience collaborating with diverse educational realms.

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200+ Activities for Preschoolers at Home & School

Shared by Mary Catherine 10 Comments

Are you looking for awesome activities for preschoolers at home AND school? If you’re a regular Fun-A-Day reader, you know I believe learning takes place everywhere, both in the classroom and out. So I put together this collection of classroom and at-home preschool activities to help both parents and teachers.

These simple preschool ideas can keep children engaged and learning while at school. AND they’re perfect for children at home during the summer, over holiday breaks, or homeschooling.

You’ll find activities that cover a wide variety of subject areas – math, literacy, art, movement, science, sensory, music, and even messy play. Most of the preschool ideas shared below are also pretty simple to setup, so you have the kids engaged quickly and easily.

Related: Free Preschool Printables

Be sure to grab the free printable at the bottom of this post. Parents, use it with your children at home if you’d like. Teachers, send it to your students’ parents or keep the list on-hand when you need new inspiration.

Table of Contents

Activities for Preschoolers at Home

My goal here is to share simpler activities that you can try with the kids without too many materials.

This post is a bit of a work in progress, so I’ll likely come back over the course of the week to make changes and add more ideas.

Below you’ll find ideas for a variety of subject areas. Pick and choose which will work best with your kids and add them to your plans. Start slowly and give yourself a lot of grace. You don’t have to do everything at once.

Simple Math Activities

Use the items that you already have on-hand to create simple math lessons for your preschoolers.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Count all of the red things in your living room.
• Sort the groceries (by color, by food, etc.). Make a small graph of the groceries on the kitchen table.
• Go into your yard and find 10 natural items.
• Use rocks and acorns to make patterns.
• Staple blank paper together to create a little book. Write a number on each page. Add that many stickers. Keep the book to read and count.
• Play a homemade game of shape memory using index cards with shapes drawn on them.

Be sure to check out over 30 more easy math activities for preschoolers , too!

Science Activities for Preschoolers at Home

Science is all around us, so there’s no need to make it too complicated for the kids.

Here are a few simple science activities to try at home:

• Go for a nature walk.
• Explore what happens when you mix water and dirt. This one is better done outside if possible, but can be brought indoors if needed.
• Pour baking soda in a pan. Let the kids drop vinegar from pipettes (or spoons) onto the vinegar. Consider coloring the vinegar or adding scent with extracts.
• Freeze things in water. Some possibilities – flowers, LEGO mini figures, small toys, coins, etc. Then let the kids experiment with different water temperatures to “rescue” what’s been frozen in ice.
• Host a taste test. Use foods you already have at home. Some possibilities – chocolate, marshmallows, crackers, green foods, etc. Observe the foods with all five senses. How does it feel? Sound? Look? Smell? Taste?
• Keep a simple science journal about all of your scientific adventures.

Pop over and read about 30 more easy science experiments for kids at home or school.

Easy Preschool Literacy Activities

Don’t let the thought of teaching early literacy worry you. There are so many simple activities that pack a punch.

Some literacy activities for preschoolers at home to try:

• Read. Then read again. And read some more.
• Integrate literacy with everything else you’re doing with the kids! Science journals, writing about their favorite paintings, recording information about a graph of favorite apples, and so on.
• Talk. And then talk some more. Everyday discussions that take place during your routine can have a large positive impact on language development.
• Play a simple rhyming game using your child’s name. How many rhymes can you all make up?
• Practice stretching words slowly to hear all of the sounds. This is especially fun if you’re pretending to talk like a whale.
• Make a name puzzle for your child. Write her name on a piece of paper and cut it apart. Use that to work on letters and words.

You can read about 40+ more early literacy activities if you need more ideas!

Sensory Activities for Preschoolers at Home

Sensory play is a must at home! Young children learn so much as they explore through their senses.

Below are some sensory ideas to try at home. Please note that these are more appropriate for older preschoolers. If you have younger children who still put things in their mouths, you’ll want to steer clear of any choking hazards. For the littles, use taste-safe material or age-appropriate materials.

• Put some stale pasta in a plastic tub. Add a few scoops, spoons, and bowls to the tub.
• Run scrap paper through your shredder to create a paper bin. Add some scissors and let the kids cut too.
• Add water to a sensory bin. Then put a little bit of scented shampoo or soap in the water. Add whisks, bowls, funnels, etc. This could also be done in the bathtub.
• Put a variety of materials into a large bin (small toys, beads, bells, paper clips – anything really). Add containers that have tops. Let the children place the materials into the containers and explore sounds.
• Make a simple sensory bottle by adding pasta, paper clips, pompoms, etc. into a clean, empty bottle. Seal shut before giving to young children.

Head over and find more than 40 more simple sensory activities for preschoolers.

Preschool Songs

I couldn’t put together a list of activities for preschoolers at home without including a little section on songs.

Singing and dancing allow children to work on SO MANY early learning concepts. Vocabulary, rhyming, gross motor movements, fine motor skills, literacy, math, science, and so much more.

Here are some song collections your preschoolers might enjoy:

• Hand washing songs
• Rhyming songs and fingerplays
• Alphabet songs
• St. Patrick’s Day songs for preschoolers
• Winter songs for preschoolers
• Christmas preschool songs

I will, of course, come back and add more song collections in the near future.

Art Activities for Preschoolers at Home

No matter where your preschoolers are, at home or at school, creativity is a must.

Let the kids experiment with different techniques and materials as they get into art and crafts. They’ll be learning how to express themselves, use their imaginations, and they’ll even touch on more “academic” knowledge this way, too.

Some easy art activities for preschoolers at home:

• Let the kids use paper and markers to draw anything they want. If they need a prompt, ask them to create their own magical creature, draw their family, use all the colors of the rainbow in one picture, etc.
• Hand the children some chalk and let them at the sidewalk or driveway! To “spice up” this activity, have the kids see what happens when they draw with wet chalk.
• Use random items you have on-hand to create art – paper clips, cotton balls, leftover plastic Easter eggs, Post-It Notes, old CDs, etc.
• Grab spare kitchen utensils, paint, and paper. Let the kids paint using potato mashers, spatulas, whisks, and anything else in those kitchen drawers. If you have washable ink, that would work well too, as would using water to “paint” with the utensils on the sidewalk or a driveway.
• Have the kids create their own jewelry with beads and string/yarn. If you don’t have any beads, consider cutting straws into smaller pieces or using buttons.
• Draw or write a hidden message with a white crayon on white paper. Have the kids use watercolors to paint over the page and uncover the surprise.

Read about more than 40 more fun art projects for kids , too!

Movement Ideas for Kids at Home

And we can’t forget encouraging those kids to move, can we?! It is SO important to ensure that young children are moving their bodies a lot throughout the day.

Some ideas to inspire you:

• Have a dance party at home! Turn up a favorite song and just dance.
• Challenge the kids to run in the shape of a triangle or a circle.
• Hold a hop-off. Who can hop 15 times? 25 times?
• Play a simple game of tag outside.
• Have the kids race to pick up natural items in the yard (flowers, pine cones, acorns, etc.).
• Use items you have to create a homemade obstacle course. Some ideas might include tree stumps, big baskets, bikes, etc.

Do you have any favorite movement activities for the kids?

Messy Play Ideas to Do at Home

Don’t be scared to try messy play activities at home! Children can learn a ton through exposure to messy play fun. AND they get a chance to practice all of those cleaning up skills.

Check out some fun 25 messy play ideas at home activities.

Tips for Parents with Preschoolers at Home

If you’re a parent with preschoolers at home, these tips are for you. If you’re a teacher, feel free to share these suggestions with your students’ parents before long breaks.

Schedules and Routines

Children of all ages thrive with a routine, especially younger kids. This doesn’t have to be a strict down-to-the second schedule, by any means! You definitely don’t need to make yourself stick to a schedule you saw online just because you feel like you have to.

Take a look at your responsibilities, available times for the family, and come up with a flexible routine that works for you.

Some families need a specific schedule, some families prefer a gentle routine, and other families are happy with a more super laid-back approach. Decide what will help YOU the most and go with that. And work the preschool activities into it as you can.

Remember the Good You Do

I want you to remember that parents are amazing! Look at what you’re doing for your kids. You’re loving them, you’re on top of meals and, you’re spending quality time with your children. (And you’re here looking for activities preschoolers can do at home.)

You’re their safe space! Because that’s what children need the most – YOU! Many children are anxious about changes that happen around winter and summer break. Having you there to connect with and love on them is the most important thing.

I know you’re worried you might not be patient enough. I know you’re worried about not meeting all of their educational needs. But you are rocking the heck out of being there for your kids!

Parents ARE Teachers

Please remember that parents are amazing teachers. You might scoff when you read that, but it’s true. Parents are a child’s first teacher. Look at all of the things you’ve helped your child learn – how to tie their shoes, how to ride a bike, manners, kindness, potty training . . . and so much more.

You just don’t realize that you’re teaching them. But you are. Every single day, whether they are in school or out of school – they are learning from you. You have got this!

Learning Doesn’t Just Take Place in the Classroom

One more thing – children learn SO MUCH from things around them. Simple things. Cooking with you, playing a fun game, walking around the neighborhood, and so on.

Keep it simple! If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stick with these five general activities for preschoolers at home:

• PLAY – Play games, play outside, play pretend, just play!
• TALK – Talk about the day, talk about your family stories, talk about the cooking you’re doing, talk about future plans.
• CREATE – Create art, create science experiments, create goofy games, create amazing LEGO structures, create memories.
• READ – Read picture books, read chapter books, read magazines, read comic books, read stories you write together.
• SING – Sing favorite songs, sing while washing your hands, sing while having a dance party, sing your own made up songs.

When you’re ready for more activities, I’ve got you covered above.

At-Home Preschool Materials

I know it can be overwhelming thinking of all the things you might need for your preschooler. So, I’ve created a list of the most basic things that you might need for your at-home preschool time. Here are my suggestions (I may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post):

• Dramatic play supplies
• Art supplies
• Math manipulatives
• Books , books, and more books!

All of these things can certainly come in handy as your little one begins to learn a variety of preschool concepts. However, I think the most important thing you can give the children is your time and attention! Be sure to play with your children as often as possible. It is so important and there are so many learning opportunities to be had.

Done-For-You Preschool Resources

Below are a few of the resources from Preschool Teacher 101 . They would be great in the classroom, as part of a take-home pack you send home with your students, or for parents at home with preschoolers.

Click on each photo for more information:

Preschool Activities at Home Printable (Free!)

I put together a simple list of all of these starter activities for preschoolers at home. You can download it, print it out, and slap it up on your fridge. When you’re at a loss of what to do, try one of the items on this list! And when you have time, you can pop back over here for even more possibilities.

If you’re a teacher, make copies of the printable and send it home with your students! Or give their parents the link to this post so they can grab it themselves.

The printable is available to members of Fun-A-Day’s free email community. If you’re a member, add your information below and it will be sent to you. If you’re not a member yet, fill out the information to join and get the printable as a welcome gift!

What are some of YOUR go-to activities for preschoolers at home? Feel free to leave me even more ideas in the comments below.

Originally posted March 2020.

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March 20, 2020 at 11:35 pm

I noticed at the top of your article it says Teachers can send it to thier students but when you open it, it says to not copy it and post for our students.

Do I have permission to post this on google classroom for my preschool students?

Thank you for your response.

March 21, 2020 at 12:19 am

Oh rats, I forgot to change out the permissions for this particular time. Yes, feel free to email it directly to your students’ families. You can also put it in private groups or apps (like Facebook or Dojo) . . . but no public social media, public websites, etc. Thanks for checking in about it.

March 21, 2020 at 12:41 am

Hi! This is the most fantastic post I’ve seen so far since subscribing to your site! I’m a preschool teach her who will be starting the new adventure of teaching PreK from home this coming week! Love all the ideas! Please send more soon! Thank you!

March 21, 2020 at 1:00 am

Thank you so much for the kind words, Karen! I’m working on quite a few additional things to supplement this – hopefully they’ll be up in the week.

March 24, 2020 at 7:40 pm

Thank you for doing this for people all over the world. I just forwarded your link to my preschool families. Now the parents will see how their children’s creativity, imagination and energy unfold.

March 24, 2020 at 10:19 pm

Joy, I am so happy I can help in some little way. Your sweet words mean the world to me – thank you!

March 26, 2020 at 8:24 pm

Thank you sooooo much!! Your email really calmed me. Looking forward to more emails from you.

March 27, 2020 at 9:03 am

I’m so happy I was able to help a little bit! 🙂

April 3, 2020 at 12:32 pm

This is Amazing! Thank you!

April 3, 2020 at 12:54 pm

Happy to help!!!

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30 Super Spring Activities for Preschoolers

Spring into fun and learning!

The temperature is getting warmer, the days are getting longer, and our little learners are filled with the energy of springtime! Here, we’ve gathered together 30 of our favorite spring activities for preschoolers to keep the learning going. From spring-themed art and craft projects to math, science, sensory, and literacy activities, you’ll find plenty of fun on this list!

1. Bee Sensory Bin

Easy to assemble, this sunny springtime sensory bin can encourage learning in so many ways. From practicing language development and honing fine motor skills to exploring math concepts, your kids will be engaged. Plus, the bin makes a great base for math or literacy manipulatives.

Get the tutorial: Super Easy Bee Sensory Bin at Fun-a-Day

2. Egg Carton Caterpillar

A perennial favorite, this egg carton repurpose is so much fun for preschoolers. Just add paint, glue on a couple of googly eyes, and add two pipe cleaner antennae, and your students have a new little best friend.

Get the tutorial: Egg Carton Caterpillars at Poofy Cheeks

3. Flower Painting

One of the easiest spring activities for preschoolers, and what a sensory treat! Students use trimmed carnations dipped into paint to create a spring masterpiece.

Get the tutorial: Painting With Flowers at Play to Learn Preschool

4. Read and Retell Spring Books

Spring is such a hopeful time! And there are so many spring activities using books to get your preschoolers excited for the season. Share some of our favorite stories with your students. Then give them the opportunity to retell them with a picture, a summary, or by acting it out for a friend.

Find books here: Picture Books to Welcome Spring

5. Seed Activity

Nothing connects kids to gardening like hands-on activities. For this one, an ice cube tray is used as a collecting bin, with one vegetable seed in each labeled compartment. After learning about each seed/vegetable, students search for seeds in a bed of rice and sort them.

Get the tutorial: Sorting Seeds at How Wee Learn

6. Spring Alphabet Game

Here is a fun way to help your students practice matching lowercase and uppercase letters. Just download the free worksheets and letter cards, then show your students how to make matches.

Get the free printable: Spring Letter Search at ABC’s of Literacy

7. Butterfly Craft

These cheerful butterflies will brighten up any classroom. They’re simple to make with coffee filters, watercolor markers, and a spray bottle of water. Top them off with pipe cleaner antennae and they’re ready to flutter.

Get the tutorial: Coffee Filter Butterflies at First Palette

8. Color-Changing Flowers

Transform white carnations into multi-hued beauties with this simple science experiment.

Get the tutorial: Color-Changing Flowers Science Experiment at Fun Learning for Kids

9. Flower Play Dough

Download this free mat, have it laminated, and let your preschoolers loose to create colorful flowers with play dough. Then, try the math activity included in the tutorial.

Get the tutorial: Spring Flower Play Dough Mat at Modern Preschool

10. Flower Science Experiment

Inspire the budding scientists in your preschool with this flower-dissection experiment. Pulling a flower apart piece by piece, talk with your students about each one. Then give them one to attach to their collection card.

Get the tutorial: Dissecting a Flower at Gift of Curiosity

11. Insect Sensory Bin

An insect sensory bin is a fun way to explore and learn about bugs. Add in exploratory tools like a magnifying glass and net and some of the extension activities in the blog below.

Get the tutorial: Insect Sensory Bin at Stir the Wonder

12. Spring Flowers

This classic craft not only produces beautiful bouquets, it helps preschoolers strengthen fine motor skills.

Get the tutorial: Tissue Paper Flowers Kid Friendly Things To Do

13. Beginning Sounds Activity

Matching words’ beginning sounds with letters is a primary skill preschoolers need to learn. This sweet activity, using mini erasers and a flower template, is a great way for your students to practice.

Get the tutorial: Spring Beginning Sounds Activity at Pre-K Pages

14. Cupcake Liner Flowers

Make these cute, glittery flowers with some cupcake liners and a few other simple materials.

Learn more: Cupcake Paper Flowers at Laughing Kids Learn

15. Erupting Rainbows

Springtime showers bring rainbows and now you can create them in your classroom with your preschoolers. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this science experiment will bring big reactions from your preschoolers!

Get the tutorial: Rainbow Eruption at The Chirping Moms

16. Cardboard Bird Feeder

Simple to make from biodegradable materials, and a special treat for all of your fine feathered friends.

Get the tutorial: DIY Birdfeeder at Little Bins for Little Hands

17. Paper Plate Bee

This craft will have your preschoolers buzzing with glee! All it takes is a plain white paper plate, black and yellow paint, and a few accessories.

Get the tutorial: Paper Plate Bee at Arty Crafty Kids

18. Paper Plate Birds

This adorable bird project is made from paper plates folded in half. Students can use their imagination and create the design of their choice with crayons, markers, glitter, and glue. Add on a feather and a set of googly eyes, and they’re ready to fly.

Get the tutorial: Paper Plate Birds at Easy Peasy and Fun

19. Rain Cloud Activity

Kids create a pretty painting and learn about the effects of gravity at the same time.

Get the tutorial: Rain Cloud Gravity Painting at A Little Pinch of Perfect

20. Toilet Paper Roll Butterfly

Even the littlest artists in your class can create this sweet craft. Handprints in paint form the wings and a painted toilet paper roll forms the body. Pipe cleaner antennae top it all off.

Get the tutorial: Toilet Roll Handprint Butterflies at Messy Little Monster

21. 3D Butterfly Model

This step-by-step art project not only teaches your students the body parts of a butterfly, they end up with a cute craft to take home.

Get the tutorial: 3D Butterfly Model at STEAMsational

22. Scavenger Hunt in Nature

Outdoor scavenger hunts make fantastic spring activities for preschoolers. Spring is the perfect time to take your students out in nature. Get this free printable worksheet and check off the items you find.

Get the tutorial: Nature Scavenger Hunt at Free Kids Crafts

23. Bubble Art Butterflies

Who knew blowing bubbles mixed with watercolor paint could create such beautiful wings for these adorable butterflies?

Get the tutorial: Bubble Art Butterflies at Red Ted Art

24. Paper Towel Rainbow

Your students will be amazed by this rainbow experiment. Start with a strip of paper towel colored on the ends with marker. Dip each end into a glass of water and watch the rainbow grow before your very eyes.

Get the tutorial: Grow a Rainbow at Mombrite

25. Leaf-Rubbing Art

Give your preschoolers the opportunity to closely observe the structure of leaves with this hands-on nature project.

Get the tutorial: Textured Leaf Rubbings at Preschool STEAM

26. Bird-Themed Sensory Bin

Designed to enchant and educate, this sensory bin features elements inspired by birds, incorporating feathers, nests, and figurine toys, offering children a tactile and visual exploration of avian life.

Get the tutorial: Beautiful Birds Sensory Bin at Happy Toddler Playtime

27. Count Flower Petals

This math game will help your preschoolers practice counting and build fine motor skills at the same time. Plus, pasta noodles for flower petals? How fun!

Get the tutorial: Flower Dice Game at I Heart Crafty Things

28. Count Caterpillars

Children instinctively count things using their fingers. If we add paint to this “equation,” kids can leave fingerprints as they count. The result is a super-fun project that combines art and math.

Get the tutorial: Fingerprint Counting at Fun Handprint Art

29. Colorful Math Tool

Create a handy counting tool with pipe cleaners and pony beads. Give it a spring theme by forming the strips into a rainbow with a white play dough cloud at either end.

Get the tutorial: Rainbow Abacus at 123 Homeschool 4 Me

30. Grow beans in a bag

Teach your kids biology (and patience) with this simple experiment that teaches the life cycle of a plant.

Get the tutorial: Seed Germination Experiment at Mombrite

If you liked these spring activities for preschoolers, check out Top Preschool Books To Stock Your Classroom Library .

Also, be sure to sign up for our newsletters to be the first to know about our latest preschool content..

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Free Printable Apple Template Bundle

Just in time for back to school and fall. Continue Reading

Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

Sight Word Book “Can” (Printable) –  Have student color and cut out the pages of this book. They will start to recognize the sight words I, can, and see with repetition.

Word Strips (Printable)   – These word cards are great for emerging readers & spellers. You can place them in a pocket chart for easy display or simply paste them to the wall. Then students can copy the word when they need it. Seeing the words repetitively helps to learn sight words faster. The strips also have the option for copying the word right underneath for handwriting practice.

B eginning Letter Sounds (Printable) – Cut out each grid and have students use clothespins, dot markers, or dot stickers to choose the letter makes the beginning sound.

Beginning Sound Leaf Bites (Printable) – This activity allows each student to write a word, phrase or sentence within the arch cells of the rainbow about themselves. Images are included to support the younger students who aren’t quite writing but are able to make picture selections of their favorite choices to then cut and paste onto their rainbow all about me page.

Leaf Match Word Families (Printable) –  Teach your students word families & rhyming words with this fun activity. Cut out each fire truck with the word family ending and have students match the words that correspond to that word family. 18 Word families and word endings including: -ug, -un, -ut, -ot, -op, -ag, -an, -at, -ad, -ab, -ap, -et, -en, ed, –it, -in,-ip, and -ig.

Fire Safety Letters (Printable) –  This is a simple activity to get students engaged in letter identity and letter formation. These Dalmatian letter cards are sure to engage your little learners!

Fire Safety Letter Identification-  This activity focuses on letter identification. Smoke cards with letters will be used as flashcards to guide the activity. Laminate the fire truck mat to circle letters, use clothespins for fine motor practice to place on letter, or point to letter on mat once found.

Fire Safety Meeting Place Maze-  Have your littles help Sparky find his outside meeting place. Follow the path to Sparky’s outside meeting place, the tree in his front yard, by going from A-Z in alphabetical order.

Fire Truck Name Craft-  Not only will your littles create their very own fire truck but they will work on writing their name too! Customizing their firetruck will make this literacy activity extra fun.

Fire Safety Sentence –   Students read the sentence, trace the sentence, write it, then cut out the words and paste them in order. Differentiated with pictures for your little learners!

Fire Safety Math Activities for Preschoolers

Fire Safety activities offer a creative and engaging way for preschoolers to develop their mathematical skills. By incorporating the fire safety into math exercises, children can learn basic concepts such as counting, sorting, and pattern recognition in a fun and interactive manner.

Number Play Doh Mats (Printable)- Playdoh mats help students learn and identify numbers, count, and develop fine motor control as they place the playdoh on the number and also put the correct number of firetrucks on the fire truck.

Counting Pathway Game (Printable) –  Pathway games make counting and adding come to life. Roll one dice and move the corresponding number or roll two dice, add the numbers and move the total.

Counting Clip Cards – Works on counting skills, number identification, and fine motor skills. Have student place a clothespin, dotsticker, or dot marker on the correct number after counting. The pinching of a clothespin also works on finger strengthening for fine motor skills.

Measuring with Sparky-  Cut out the ruler, measure each fire safety item, then write how many inches tall it is. Use this ruler for other smaller items around the house/classroom.

Fall Leaf Number Trace (Printable)- This activity helps with number recognition & formation. Put a pile of numbers in front of your student. Give them a sheet with the dotted numbers. Have the student pick one number from the pile and trace it once they find it on their board.

Firefighter Number Puzzle –   Use these simple number puzzles to help your with number coordination and following patterns. Make them extra fun by coloring the pieces. Laminate for future uses!

Counting Number Mats (Printable)-  Use these mats for students to count manipulatives.  Have them place the same number of manipulatives in the circles or on the mat as the number shown at the top.

Number Find & Trace (Printable) –  This activity helps with number recognition & formation. Put a pile of numbers in front of your student. Give them a sheet with the dotted numbers. Have the student pick one number from the pile and trace it once they find it on their board.

Counting at the Fire Station Printable Book-  Practice counting from 1 to 5 at the fire station. The free printable book works on counting, reading and fine motor skills.

Dalmatian Spot Counting Card –  Count the number spots on the dalmatian. Cards range from 1 dot to 12. Use the collars to label how many dots the dog has.

Safety Color by Number-  Pack include three color by number pages (one boy, one girl, one Dalmatian) and a crayon color guide!

Fire Safety Fine Motor Activities for Preschool

These Fire Safety activities are an excellent way to help preschoolers develop fine motor skills.

Engaging in tasks such as tracing numbers and pictures, cutting out lines and shapes, and assembling fire safety themed crafts allows children to practice precision and control with their hands and fingers.

These activities enhance dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and muscle strength in a fun and creative way.

Put the Fire Out Fine Motor Activity-  A fine motor skill that includes water guns? Well that is every kids dream! By using hand drawn or printed out houses, shaving foam with color, and some open space- your littles will be putting out house fires and working on their skills in no time.

Tissue Paper 911 Fill In-  Students will improve and demonstrate fine motor skills by scrunching up tissue paper or ripping paper to fill in the emergency 911 number.

Dot Activities (Printable) –  Using dot activities increase hand-eye coordination, improves manual dexterity for toddlers, and encourages creativity. These dot sheets have your students filling in pictures of fires or dots on fires.

2D Shape Fire Safety Play Dough Cards –  These free 2D shape fire tree dough cards are a fun and engaging way for your students to work on their 2D shape recognition and formation skills.

Cut and Sort Hot or Not Fine Motor Activity-   There are things in your home that are hot or can get hot. Teach your littles to stay away from hot things because they can hurt.  Cut and sort the pictures in the correct column and this engages fine motor skills.

911 Practice Phone-  Let children cut out the numbers 9-1-1 on the right and glue them in the squares. They can use the phone to practice calling 9-1-1.

Cutting Strips (Printable) –  Cut out these strips and have students practice cutting or tracing straight lines, curved lines, squiggly lines, or zig zag lines. This is great for scissor practice and fine motor development.

Fire Safety Cut and Paste (Printable) – This resource comes with a fire template and 6 cut and paste fire safety picture cards. Students can practice fine motor skills and learn about fire safety when they cut out each picture and glue it in place. Color and B&W versions included!

Firehouse Dog Origami-  Put your littles fine motor skills to work with origami. Creating a fun fire house dog as a keepsake fits perfectly into the fire safety theme.

Smoke Detector and Words Tracing Activity-  Teach your littles that the smoke detector says “beep, beep, beep.” and have them trace the smoke alarm and the words.

Fire Safety Arts & Crafts Activities for Preschoolers

Fire Safety art and creativity activities are a wonderful way to ignite the imagination of preschoolers.

Through artistic expression, children can explore ways of keeping themselves safe and experiment with colors, shapes, and textures.

These activities provide a creative outlet for young minds, encouraging them to think creatively and develop their unique artistic style.

Engaging with Fire Safety themed art projects helps preschoolers enhance their fine motor skills, boosts their confidence, and a sense of understanding what tools help keep us safe in ours homes, outside of our homes and firefighters keeping us safe.

Fire Safety Craft –  This simple, yet, creative craft and you can use it to teach how to put out of a fire. Mixing these paint colors will change it which shows them the teaching of different ways to put out the fire.

Shape Firetruck on Flame Painting Craft-  Take each step to create their very own firetruck. Once those are completed, you will use a few simple materials to make the fire for the background.

Fire Truck Craft Handprint Art-   A handprint anything makes a memorable keepsake. Follow the fire safety theme and create a fire truck out of their little hands.

Firefighter Dalmatian Kids Craft- Gather simple supplies such as q-tips, white paper cups, construction paper, paint, etc and have your littles build their own firefighter Dalmatian.

Craft Stick Fire Truck-  Create your own small version of Flash! Give kids plain craft sticks and have them paint them red. You could also use red dyed craft sticks. Cut another craft stick in half and lay the two pieces parallel on the table. Next, lay the red sticks perpendicular across the halved sticks and glue them together.

Firefighter Hat Craft –  Children paint a paper plate red to make this firefighter hat craft. After the paint has dried, it is cut to resemble a firefighter hat. A badge for the hat is made with yellow sticky foam. When finished, the children can wear their hats and pretend to be firefighters!

Letter of the Day: F is for Fire-  Trace a large letter F on the orange paper. Cut it out and glue to the black piece of paper. Take a square of tissue paper and wrap it around a pencil, dip in glue and then stick to the letter F. Continue until the letter is covered.

Fire Extinguisher Craft-   This craft involves having preschoolers make their own fun fire extinguisher that they can use to put-out, “Pretend,” fires anytime they feel like it!

Fire Truck Snacks-   These edible fire trucks that children can assemble make a great treat that is fun to assemble and then eat. Enjoy during a story time or during a craft time.

Fire Truck Zip Lock Bag Activity – The goal of the activity is to blow into a straw and get all the flames off the bottom a plastic bag decorated with a fire truck. If you can get the flames above the fire truck, that is even better. It takes a lot of breath control to get the flames ( tiny pieces of colored tissue) to rise off the bottom of the bag before you fill the bag with air.

Fire Safety Physical Development Activities for Preschool

Fire Safety physical activities are a fantastic way to support the physical development of preschoolers.

By engaging in activities with different movements and behaviors, children can improve their gross motor skills, balance, and coordination.

Whether they’re carrying doing DIY firefighter obstacles, putting out fake fires, or learning from firefighters themselves, these playful exercises help build strength and flexibility.

Putting Out Chalk Fires-  Draw flames with the sidewalk chalk. It doesn’t have to look good; it’ll just get washed away in a minute anyway. Have your mini-firefighter squirt water on the chalk fires to put them out.

Fire Hose Fact Practice Game- Whether you work on math facts or sight words, draw them with chalk on a fence (or sidewalk) and have your little spray out the correct answer with their “fire hose.”

DIY Fire Extinguishers Easy Pretend Play-  Fake Fire Flames for Kids are sure to bring their pretend play to life add a few DIY Fire Extinguishers and take play time to a whole new level! ou just need a few craft supplies like a clean spray bottle and some duct tape.

Firefighter Physical Fitness, “Test,” For Preschoolers-  For all your preschoolers who want to be firefighters-in-training these assorted challenges as part of a physical fitness, “Test,” are a great way to be active and develop gross as well as fine motor skills.

Firefighter Visits, How to Call 911 & Stop, Drop and Roll-  This activity is a great layout of making a morning/afternoon out of learning the top most important fire safety tips. Visit your local fire department or set up a visit from them to see how they get ready for a fire. Follow this up with how to call 911 and stop, drop and roll to save their lives.

Fire Safety Science and Sensory Activities for Preschool

Science is a great experience for kids to explore another side of learning. The projects and activities they start now in preschool will feed their minds.

Giving them the spark for science while engaging their senses makes for your preschooler to be an all around learner. Understanding the science behind how fire starts, spreads and is safely avoided/put out is the perfect way to experiment.

Utilize what you have around your home or even around your community!

The Science of Fire-  My kids wanted to know just how does fire burn? Here is a demonstration of what we learned. Fire is mystical to children. which makes it critical that children learn the importance of fire safety and that fire is not something to play with. Have fun teaching them this important lesson.

Climbing Firefighter STEAM Activity-   Create a homemade pully and firefighter for this activity. Your littles will need to place the loop at the top of their twine or ribbon on a door or cabinet knob. They will slowly alternate pulling one cord and then the other with a rocking motion to make the firefighter rise up the twine or cord. It will look like the firefighter is climbing.

Firefighter Fire Cup Stacking and Knock Down STEM Challenge-  Asking different questions such as “Can we stack them in a way that makes them harder to knock down?” then executing these trials and errors make this great science activity.

Bubbly Fire Science Activity-  Have the experiment begin with “How do fires start?” Invite the kids to pour vinegar slowly from one cup into the cup that contains the baking soda. Invite the kids to observe what happens to the baking soda.  As the vinegar and baking soda are combined, a chemical reaction occurs to create a BUBBLY FIRE!

Fire Rescue Chickpeas Sensory Bin-  Are you looking for a fun and educational activity to engage your little ones? This Fire Rescue Chickpeas Sensory Bin is the perfect blend of creativity and learning, designed to keep kids entertained while teaching them about fire safety.

Firefighter Slime-  This Firefighter Slime is the perfect inside boredom buster, sensory activity and role-play all in one! Check out two sets of instructions for both types of slime in this activity.

Flame Sensory Bottle-  This fun sensory bottle with oil and water will help your kids learn about colors, and they’ll also have a blast shaking the bottle and making pretend “flames.”

Firefighter Play Dough –  Play dough supports creativity and fine motor skills in a fun. Rolling dough and pressing cookie cutters and other items into soft dough has many benefits for your littles. Follow this recpe for homemade playdough and jazz it up with firefighter accessories to fit the theme.

Bags of Fire-  This sensory activity includes several different “bags of fire” that your littles can mush up and play with. Using shaving cream, glitter, paint, painters tape and ziplock bags you will have created a sensory activity everyone will enjoy.

Fire Safety Sort & Sequencing Activities for Preschoolers

Learning to sort objects in various ways helps your child develop the cognitive skills to be able to recognize and create patterns, think logically, and put things in order or sequence.

Sort and sequencing activities also supports children in participating in daily tasks, like clean-up time. Why not make it fun while being educational learning all about Fire Safety.

Patterns Fire Safety-  This packet is perfect for the little learners to practice their sequencing skill by completing the patterns. Patterns included are: AB, AAB, ABB, AABB, ABC.

Sorting Mats (Printable) –  Collect the different fire items that match the main photo as well as adding them to the patterning page.

Hot or Not Sorting-  Have your littles check out the photos in the column. Which pictures show something hot? Which pictures show something that can get hot? Which pictures show something that is not hot?

Stop, Drop & Roll Sequence Activity and Poster-   Fire safety sequencing activity for Stop, Drop, and Roll for Fire Safety. This activity and this poster is to demonstrate this life saving tactic in a way to also teach sequencing.

Fire Engine Number Sorting Preschool Activity-  This fire engine themed sorting math activity is perfect for teaching basic number sense and sorting. 10 fire engine number mats and corresponding number matching cards representing numbers 1-10. Have your littles sort through them and work on their number recognition.

Fire Safety Theme Discussions and Graphing Ideas for Preschoolers

Fire Safety discussions and graphing activities offer a structured yet exciting way for preschoolers to explore the every day items they see and items they may not be as familiar with.

By engaging in discussions, children develop their language skills, learn to articulate their thoughts and build a deeper understanding of being safe near a fire, avoiding starting fires, being around hot items, calling 911, being comfortable around firefighters and so many more possibly life saving tips.

What is Fire Safety?:

• Discuss the different tactics they can understand at this age. (calling 911, stop, drop & roll, avoiding playing with fire, etc)
• Ask the children when they need to call 911.

Physically Practice Stop, Drop and Roll:

• Demonstrate and talk further about stop, drop and roll. Explain when this is needed and practice how.
• Ask children to show you how to stop, drop and roll.

Fire Trucks:

• Show your littles the different kinds of fire trucks fire departments have.
• Discuss the colors on the trucks, the lights, the sirens, and different tools they have.

Low and Under the Smoke:

• Discuss how to keep themselves safe in a smokey area.
• Teaching fire safety comes with teaching children how to stay safe. Go over staying low and under the smoke while they exit a smokey building.

Tools Used for Fire Safety

• Talk about different tools firefighters and civilians use for fire safety.
• Discuss and show photos of fire alarms, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, flashlights, axes, fire hoses, and so much more!

Fire Emergency Varieties:

• Introduce different dangerous fire situations to your preschoolers to avoid.
• Show pictures or videos and discuss how they can keep themselves safe or make others aware of an emergency.

Calling 911:

• Create a chart that shows photos of a house fire, cat stuck in a tree, building fire, etc.
• Have children compare match these emergencies or non emergies with a column of 911 or not. Help your students with knowing the importance of an emergency.

Hot Things Burn Graph:

• Create a graph or how likely something is to burn in a fire.
• Discuss which items are very dangerous to catch fire and how fast they burn. (candles, houses, cars, clothing.)

Fire Safety Graph:

• Create a chart to compare ways to stay safe vs putting themselves in danger.
• For example have 2 columns safe and unsafe and a list with multiple options. (playing with matches, running into a burning building, crawling under smoke, pulling a smoke alarm if we see a fire, etc.

Count and Graph:

• Using household/classroom items (or created with playdough, small toys) count safe items vs nonsafe items to avoid due to fires.
• Create a graph over your findings.

Fire Safety Books to Read Aloud for Preschool

Reading Fire Safety books aloud is a delightful way to introduce preschoolers to staying safe in a dangerous situation. These books captivate young minds with engaging stories, colorful illustrations, and fascinating facts about Fire Safety.

Stop, Drop, and Roll! (Fire Safety)-  What should you do if flames get on your clothes? Stop, drop, and roll! This sing-along picture book will make kids want to practice this life-saving skill over and over again.

Pete the Cat: Firefighter Pete- In Pete the Cat: Firefighter Pete from New York Times best selling author and artist James Dean, Pete and his classmates are excited about their field trip to the firehouse. They get to slide down the pole, meet all the brave firefighters, and even try on their helmets and gear.

Plan and Prepare!-   Do you know the four rules of fire safety? Have a plan. Get out fast. Stay low. And don’t open hot doors. This sing-along picture book will make kids want to practice these four life-saving rules over and over again.

Big Frank’s Fire Truck-   Big Frank tells young readers all about firefighting and the many other important jobs firefighters do: fire safety training, fire inspection, helping at accident scenes, and more. It’s all in a day’s–and night’s–work for our firefighting friend and his crew.

This Book Is On Fire!-  In this fiery and interactive journey, Finn sets out to please his hungry reader with dish after dish. Will his froggy flavors ignite to culinary chaos, or will Finn discover the secret ingredient to win over the finicky eater?

Clifford the Firehouse Dog-  Emily Elizabeth and Clifford go to visit his brother, who is a firehouse dog. When an alarm goes off, Clifford comes to the rescue — he helps others by rescuing the people and putting out the fire!

No Dragons for Tea: Fire Safety for Kids (and Dragons)-  While out for a walk with her mom, a little girl has the surprise of her life — she meets a real, live, fire-breathing dragon! Now this dragon is nothing to be afraid of — in fact, he’s so friendly that she invites him home for tea. But their afternoon snack is suddenly interrupted when the dragon sneezes and sets the table ablaze. Luckily, the girl knows just what to do, and she teaches her new friend to be fire smart, too.

Let’s Meet a Firefighter-  Firefighter Jim works at the fire department. He knows how to handle all kinds of emergencies. He shows a group of kids how he does his job. Let’s hear it for firefighters!

Flashing Fire Engines-  Big bold fire engines, waiting day and night, Ready for a rescue or a blazing fire to fight. As soon as there’s a fire alarm, the engines start to roar. The firefighters jump aboard…it rumbles out the door.

Firefighter Frank-  Bright pictures of a firefighter and his big red truck make this board book perfect for the very youngest. In twelve eye-catching spreads, Frank shows scenes from his day, from cleaning the truck to putting out a fire. With lots to look at, this book is sure to be a favorite of every truck-loving tot.

Fire Safety Songs for Preschool

Fire Safety songs are a fun and engaging way to introduce preschoolers to the crisp air and changing leaves they will see.

Through catchy melodies and playful lyrics, these songs capture children’s attention and make learning about Fall/Harvest time an enjoyable experience.

Singing about Fire Safety helps children improve their memory, language skills, and rhythm, while also fostering a love for music.

Tune: “The Wheels on the Bus”

Sing the song but use the sound and movement of: siren, ladder, seatbelts, fire dog, hose, water, etc

Five Little Firefighters

Five little firefighters sleeping in their bed

The first one said, “Put your helmet on your head!”

The second one said, “Down the pole we’ll slide.”

The third one said, “Get ready to ride!”

The fourth one said, “Put your gas mask on your nose.”

The fifth one said, “I’ll grab the hose!”

Then “woooo” went the siren and out went the fire

And the five little firemen could finally retire!

Ten little firefighters

Sleeping in their beds.

“Ding!” went the bell,

And down the pole they slid.

They raced to the fire

And put out all the flames.

Then the 10 little firefighters

Went back to bed again.

Smoke Chant

If you don’t want to choke

Crawl under the smoke.

Get down on the floor

And head for the door.

To the tune of “I’m a little Teapot”

I am a fireman dressed in red.

With my fire hat on my head.

I can drive the fire truck, fight fire too,

And help make things safe for you.

Tune: “Frere Jacques “

Never, never play with matches.

If you do, if you do,

You might burn your fingers,

That won’t do! That won’t do!

You might burn your clothes,

To the tune of: “Eensy weensy spider”

The firefighter helps us learn our safety rules.

Playing with matches is only for fools.

If you see a fire, “Help, you’ll scream and shout!”

Dial 911. The firefighter will put it out

To the tune of “Pop Goes The Weasel”

Down the street the engine goes

The Firemen fight the fire

Up the ladder with their hose

Out goes the fire.

ls on the Fire Engine

Instead of bus. We use the siren, ladder, seat belts, and so on and so on.

Just use your imagination with everything on the truck!

(Using their hands for motions)

This firefighter rings the bell. (thumb)

This firefighter hold the hose so well. (index)

This firefighter slides down the pole. (middle)

This firefighter chops a hole. (ring)

This firefighter climbs higher and higher. (pinky)

And all the firefighters put out the fire!

To the tune of ” “Oh My Darling Clementine”

I’m on Fire, I’m on Fire

But I know just what to do

I will stop all of my running

Drop and roll’s the thing to do

Fire Safety Visual Perception for Preschoolers

Visual perception is how we understand and know about the world and our environment through what we see. These are great visual activities that will recognize and with the help of these activities they will show initiative with what they recognize too.

When your child nurtures their visual perception, they will find their world less confusing and perform tasks that everyone needs. This will help them excel in all parts of their lives as they continue to grow.

Shape Match (Printable) –  Teach shapes and colors with this fun themed activity. Cut to size or have students do some of the cutting on the line. Have them match each shape to its corresponding card.

Sparky’s Fire Safety Maze (Printable)- Have your littles follow the maze to get out safely with Sparky the fire dog!

Draw the Fire Truck Visual Discrimination Activity-  This visual discrimination activity will test your littles skills of drawing to match the photo above. Trying this multiple times throughout the year will be a fun way to see their growth with this activity too.

Firefighter Matching Activity- Matching activities are great for toddlers and preschool kids to practice the skill of finding something that is the same. Activate your littles problem solving skills, pattern skills and fine motor skills to place the tiles in the correct slot.

Meeting Place Hidden Pictures- Challenge your littles to find the photos hidden in this photo. Print out both the mat and answer key. Strengethen their visual perception with this fun activity.

Fire Safety activities offer a rich and diverse way to support preschoolers’ development across various domains. From enhancing fine motor skills and literacy to sparking curiosity in science and math, these activities provide endless opportunities for young learners to grow and discover.

By incorporating worksheets, crafts, sensory experiences, songs, and more, educators and parents can create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that fosters a lifelong sense of awareness and skills to protect themselves.

As you explore these activities with your preschoolers, remember that the journey of learning is as important as the destination.

Embrace the adventure, encourage curiosity, and enjoy the countless moments of discovery and joy that come with exploring Fire Safety.

With each activity, you’re not only nurturing essential developmental skills but also inspiring a sense of wonder and appreciation for the hard working men and women that protect our community.

Want all of these in one easy-to-access location? Try our Fire Safety Lesson Plan!

And… if you are interested in receiving these lesson plans plus others straight to your inbox – join our TL Membership!

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Wooden Alphabet Number Stamp for Kids, Letter Stampers ABC Math Learning Toys, Montessori Education Toys Gifts for 3 4 5 Year Old, Preschool Home School Arts and Crafts Supplies

Stamps Clay Set

Stamps INK Pads Set

• WOODEN ALPHABET AND NUMBER STAMPS：You will receive 26 letter stamps, 10 number stamps, 3 arithmetic symbol stamps and 26 activity cards. These fun stamps are designed to help children learn ABC and elementary math in a fun and easy way.Playing these stamp embossing games can help kids develop imagination, hands-on skills, fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
• STAMPS DESINESD FOR KIDS：The letter&number stamps are designed for toddler&children, made of solid wood and silicone, with comfortable grip handles and smooth non-toxic water-based paint surface, safe and easy to hold. The two shapes of numbers and English embossing film can be clearly distinguished, and the characters on the top of the stamp and the top and bottom of the stamp are overlapping, which can make it easier for kids to control the direction of the characters.
• THE BLOOM OF CREATIVITY：Use each number and letter stamp to form the expression of your child's language. Used together with clay, inkpad, paint, etc，Not only forming alphanumeric words, but also decorating greeting cards, scrapbooks, pictures, letters, etc., as well as making some handcrafts, so that your child's creativity can be unleashed. It can also be used as a learning toy for parent-child or friend interaction. It can also preschool classroom must haves and homeschool supplies.
• 26 LEARNING ACTIVITY CARDS：Each learning card is a common animal, plant and everyday object around us, perfect for learning and cognition. Each card has a main body with word vowels highlighted Combined with the main body there are arithmetic problems, children can use the stamps on the back of the card in the blank space to copy words or calculate arithmetic problems. Children can discover a lot of interesting knowledge and problems in this playful process.
• BEST GIFT FOR CHILDREN：This wooden letter and number stamp is prepared for your child's preschool and basic language awareness, with very strong educational and learning meaning. You can give this special gift to your kids on their birthday, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Halloween or other occasions to create a happy and fun learning atmosphere for them.

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Product Dimensions	1 x 1 x 1.7 inches
Item Weight	1 pounds
ASIN	B0D8HRJLR9
Item model number	S003
Manufacturer recommended age	36 months - 15 years
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