Today we are painting with chalk and water! Painting with chalk is so easy to do and a fun way to explore colors. This chalk painting activity is great for kids of all ages like toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary aged kids like kindergarteners. Chalk painting is a great craft whether you’re at home or in the classroom.

Painting with Chalk

Art for toddlers is all about exploring new materials – discovering how they feel, how they can be used and how different materials react with each other.

This simple chalk and water activity will keep kids entertained as the discover how the water and chalk react together. It is very simple to put together and provides lots of opportunities for fine motor practice, sensory play and creativity.

Older kids will enjoy this activity just as much as toddlers so it’s a great one to try if you need something suitable for a mix of ages.

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Supplies Needed For This Painting With Chalk Activity

WHAT YOU WILL NEED

• black paper
• colored chalk (large thick sidewalk chalk is great for little hands)
• jar of water and a paintbrush or sponge

How To Paint With Chalk

Step 1

Use the paintbrush or sponge to spread water all over the black paper.

Step 2

This simple step is lots of fun, especially for toddlers. Even before the chalk hits the paper, kids will enjoy exploring the wet paper, the way it looks and feels, and the way it sticks to itself and the table.

Step 3

Once the page is wet, it’s time to start coloring. The chalk colors become so much brighter and intense on the wet paper.

Our Experience With This Painting With Chalk Activity

The chalk glides across the wet page and leaves a lovely thick paste which is great for finger painting.  The bright colors are so appealing to toddlers and they may even try dipping the chalk directly into the water to see what happens. It’s all about exploration and discovery.

To extend the activity, why not try painting over the chalk marks with more painted water.

Alternatively, try doing this activity in reverse – draw with chalk on dry paper first, then paint over it with the water. What happens to the chalk? Does it disappear or turn brighter?

More Chalk Ideas From Kids Activities Blog

• Check out these fun chalk board games kids can create while playing outside.
• Here is how to make a chalk walk for your neighbors to play on.
• You can get Crayola tie dye sidewalk check!
• How to host a chalk walk even in your neighborhood.
• This sidewalk chalk board game is amazing.
• Create a face using side walk chalk and nature!
• Here are 16 more easy ways to make DIY Chalk.

Did you have fun painting with chalk?