for your children when you take the time to sit with them, without distractions, and create together. It’s also very nurturing for your own creative spirit! Young children innately know the importance and pure joy that comes from play. They know how to paint without judgment. They know how to dive right in while creating. They are drawn to experimenting, to trying new things, to getting messy and to enjoying the process with little attachment to the outcome. So allow yourself to take their lead. Sit side-by-side with your children. Try painting the entire page with water first. Getting the paper wet will allow the paint to bleed and your children will enjoy watching the colors dance along the page. Flick the paint, try different strokes, try different sized brushes or forgo brushes altogether! (My 3-year-old starts with brushes but almost always ends up painting with his hands.) Lift the paper and watch the paint drip and blend. Show your children what happens when they mix different colors together. For older children they
may enjoy painting from life – get out in nature and paint the colors, the details and the beauty all around. The medium of watercolor is fun and simple. And not only that, it invites you to experience quality, creative family time while you slow down and enjoy being in the present moment.
Happy Painting!
Here are a few suggestions when painting with watercolors with your children 1. Set up outside or in a space where you feel comfortable getting messy. 2. Likewise, wear paint shirts so you all feel uninhibited to splatter and play. 3. Get your supplies ready: watercolor paints, watercolor paper, bowl for water, and brushes 4. Be open to experimenting and have fun!
s u m m e r 2011
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