Baby & Toddler Art Projects

Finger Painting: Finger painting is fun and easy with instant pudding. Just mix according to package directions and you're ready to play. Try using a cookie sheet, as this smooth non-porous surface is perfect for baby's finger tracks. If you want a permanent picture, place a sheet of white paper over your child's painting and press down lightly to make a print. Let this dry and hang for the family to admire. No need to worry about this paint—it's edible!

Jell-O Painting With Ice Cubes: Try this new kind of painting using your favorite flavor of gelatin and ice cube paintbrushes. You will need the following:

• Ice cube tray
• Craft sticks
• Powdered gelatin (any flavors)
• Water
• White paper

Fill an ice cube tray with water and cover the top with foil. Insert craft sticks into each section and freeze overnight. The next day, place a white sheet of paper in front of your youngster. Sprinkle a small amount of powdered gelatin on the paper and invite your baby/toddler to paint over the gelatin with the "ice cube paintbrush." Use several flavors if you wish. As you make pretty designs together, name the colors and smell the delicious scents.

Zipper-Bag Art

Mustard and Ketchup Make Orange: You and your baby or toddler will enjoy this interesting way to make the color orange! You will need the following:

• Zip-locking plastic bag
• 1/2 cup mustard
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• Measuring cup

Pour the mustard into the measuring cup and then into the bag. Do the same with the ketchup. After sealing the bag, encourage your little one to gently mix the colors with her hands. Talk about the colors of the condiments and of the new mixture. This is a fun way for little kids to finger paint without the mess.

Color Swirl Bag: Here is another variation of zipper bag art. You will need the following:

• Zip-locking plastic bag
• Jell-O (already made) or pudding (already made or from a can)
• Heavy tape (optional)

Fill a plastic bag with Jell-O or pudding of two colors. Zip it shut and for extra security, fold the top down about an inch and tape it across the bag. Together you and your child can press and squeeze this bag and watch the colors mix and swirl. This activity helps your child develop finger dexterity.