Collaborative Family Mural Painting Project
Tape a long sheet of paper to a wall and paint a mural together as a family — everyone contributes their own section to create one big shared artwork.
What You'll Need
- 1Butcher paper or craft paper roll (at least 4 feet long)
- 2Washable paint (multiple colors)
- 3Paintbrushes (various sizes)
- 4Cups for paint
- 5Tape
- 6Drop cloth or old sheet
What You'll Need
Butcher paper or craft paper roll (at least 4 feet long — longer is better)
Washable paint in multiple colors
Paintbrushes in various sizes
Cups for paint
Tape for mounting
Drop cloth or old sheet to protect the wall and floor
How to Play
Tape a long sheet of paper to a wall, fence, or along the floor. Position it at your child's height so they can reach all the way across their section.
Choose a theme together. An underwater scene, a garden of flowers, a city skyline, an outer space adventure, or completely abstract — whatever excites your family.
Set out cups of paint and brushes for everyone who is painting. Each person gets their own brush at minimum.
Each person picks a section of the mural. There are no strict boundaries — just general areas to start from.
Paint together, narrating as you go. "I am painting a big sun in my corner. What are you adding over there?"
Let sections overlap and blend where they meet. The borders between painters are often the most dynamic and interesting parts of the mural.
When everyone is finished, step back together and take in the full artwork. Talk about each person's contribution.
Tips
This is a social art experience as much as a visual one. The conversation during painting is where the real connection happens.
Let younger children paint freely in their section, even if it is just abstract color. Their energy adds to the overall piece.
Take a photo of the mural with all the artists standing in front of it. This becomes a treasured family memory.
Murals work beautifully outdoors on a fence or garage wall with the paper taped up. The space feels expansive and freeing.
Roll up and save the mural when it dries. Unfurl it months later and relive the experience together.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 30 min, with 10 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: butcher paper or craft paper roll (at least 4 feet long), washable paint (multiple colors), paintbrushes (various sizes), cups for paint, tape, and 1 more item.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 3-6 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors or outdoors?
This activity works great both indoors and outdoors, giving you flexibility based on the weather or your space.
How difficult is this activity?
This activity has a moderate difficulty level. It may require some preparation or guidance, but is manageable for most families.
Ratings & Reviews
Sign in to leave a rating or review.
Add to Your Weekly Plan
Schedule this activity into your family's week. It takes about 30 min.
Free account required to save plans
Explore More
Love this activity?
Create a free account and add it to your weekly planner. Discover hundreds more activities matched to your child's age.