Baby Painting

So far most of the things I have posted on here are for older monsters, but I know monsters come in all ages, so if you have a baby/toddler then this post is for you!  When my three-year-old was younger I was always looking for fun, un-messy activities he could do.  I saw this on the Family Fun website and thought it was such a good idea (I actually used their picture because it was soooo cute).  All you do is give your toddler a cup of water and some paint brushes and let them paint designs in the residual chalk dust on a chalk board.  If you don't have a chalk board, you could buy some chalkboard spray paint (found in most craft stores now) and spray an old scrap piece of wood or even a large piece of cardboard, lay it against the side of your house and let the little ones make a big wet mess!  Even my three-year-old would like it.  For some added education, you can have your emerging writers use a wet sponge to write letters you randomly call out on the chalkboard.  The big sponge is easier to manipulate than a small pencil and may help children who struggle writing due to poor small motor skills.  Endless possibilities are wrapped up in this idea, but most of all it is fun!!!  Happy "painting"!

Not Just For the Face

What's better to play with than ooey, gooey, foamy shaving cream?  For a three-year-old, there isn't much else that tops it!  When I taught school I would occasional spray this on the desks for my students to play in and when we were done I would have bright shiny clean desks!  I decided one day when searching for something fun for my son to do that he'd probably love it too!  It was a fantastic sensory play activity.  He rubbed it through his fingers, painted shapes all through it on the counter, commented on how it smelled and was amazed how it disappeared when he rubbed it in his hands.  We had a great time!  I would highly recommend it!  BE WARNED: this will take the paint/finish off wooden objects!  So, stick with hard surfaces.  And makes sure you are close by to ensure no one tries to eat it!  If shaving cream makes you nervous, you can put baby lotion on a piece of aluminum foil and you get a similar affect!  Now, go get messy with your fingers!