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"!