Simple Line Painting
Use this simple technique to create shapes and designs with paint.
Use this simple technique to create shapes and designs with paint.
Ages/Grades
Toddler, Preschool, Early Elementary
Learning Domains
Language, Fine Motor, Literacy, Math
Materials
• Shallow Dishes or Palette
• Cardboard pre-cut into small rectangles or squares
Ready, Set, Create!
Pour one color of paint onto your palette or shallow dish.
Set out paper and cardboard pieces.
Model for children how to dip the edge of the cardboard pieces into the paint and press it onto the paper to make lines.
Engage Children in Conversation
Comment on what you observe, such as "I notice you made your lines connect into the shape of a square." or "What do you think will happen if you use a different side of the cardboard?”
Ask children open ended questions that encourage critical thinking, such as:
What happens when you press very hard? What happens when you press lightly?
What designs will you create with your lines? Do you have a plan or will you see what happens?
How can you make sure you have just the right amount of paint on your edge?
For very young children, try asking “either/or” questions, such as;
Are you using black or blue paint?
Did you make a straight line or a curved line with your cardboard?
Extensions
Try playing calm music while children are creating. This is such a simple activity, but it can keep children engaged for a long time perhaps because of its simplicity.
Try offering different lengths of cardboard so that children can make a variety of lines.
Write or show pictures of alphabet letters so that children are inspired to create letters with their edges.
Modifications
Offer larger pieces of cardboard for young children or those who need more support with fine motor control.
Older children may cut their own pieces of cardboard.