- Gina
Outdoor Chalk Paint
Our recipe for chalk paint only requires 3 ingredients & it takes just a few minutes to make! My 8-year-old is in charge of making it for our family!
Not only is that activity FUN for all ages, but it is also incredibly calming for some kids. Arts and crafts, particularly painting is a great practice in self-regulation. It is known to reduce stress & anxiety in both children & adults. It not only encourages a quiet, peaceful environment but it also allows your brain to focus on the colors & the lines & the brush strokes, providing those "feel good feelings" that we all get when we are doing something we love!
If you are looking for a fun & engaging way to get some time outside, this is it!! While your little artist creates, they will be getting the benefits of fresh air, using their imagination, strengthening motor skills AND being exposed to the magic world of color mixing!
You will need:
Cornstarch
Water
Food coloring
Muffin tin, bowl or cup
Paintbrushes
I like to use a muffin tin because it is easy to clean, easy for my kids to use & I always have them on hand. But you can use any bowl, cup or container that you prefer! This small one is from the Dollar Tree & we use it for painting & crafting & loose parts storage!
I use equal parts cornstarch and water. You want it to have a thin, liquid-feel & not be congealed like Oobleck would be! So, if you add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch into your muffin tin, add 2 tablespoons of water & mix well. You can always add more water if needed.
To be honest, I always eyeball it and it still comes out great! So don't stress over the measurements!! I add the cornstarch first, then 3-4 squirts of food coloring on top. If you are looking for deeper, darker colors, add a few more squirts.
Pour the water on top & mix well. It will feel a little hard at first as the cornstarch interacts with the water & begins to clump together. Keep mixing until smooth!
This recipe is a perfect one to have your kiddos try out on their own. It will encourage them to follow directions, measure, mix & create independently!
Take your chalk paint outdoors & have fun! It glides on smooth like paint & dries a pretty opaque color.
Want to extend your learning? Use this to practice writing your name, the alphabet, numbers, shapes or sight words! Anytime you can bring learning outdoors is a win!!
Chalk paint has always rinsed right off our pavement. We have never had an issue with staining. You are using food coloring, so be aware & use your own judgement when choosing which surface to paint on.