Easel Painting
Set up an easel and let your toddler paint freely. Builds creativity, fine motor skills, and color exploration.
What You'll Need
- 1Washable paint
- 2Large paper
- 3Easel or tape paper to wall
- 4Brushes or sponges
What You'll Need
Washable paint (2-3 colors to start)
Large paper taped to an easel or wall
Brushes, sponges, or just their hands
How to Do It
Tape paper at your toddler's height.
Put small amounts of paint on a plate or in cups.
Let them paint freely — no instructions needed.
Talk about what they're doing: "Wow, big blue circles!"
Let it dry and display their masterpiece.
Tips
Smocks are your friend. Old t-shirts work too.
Start with primary colors and let them discover mixing.
Vertical painting (on an easel or wall) builds shoulder strength.
Age Adaptation Tips
Toddlers learn through repetition. Keep it simple, expect mess, and let them explore at their own pace. Demonstrate first, then let them try.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 20 min, with 5 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: washable paint, large paper, easel or tape paper to wall, brushes or sponges.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 1-3 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This is an easy activity that requires minimal setup and supervision. Great for busy days or when you need something quick.
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 20 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.