This idea may elicit a "no duh" from seasoned moms and dads, but we've been delighted to discover how much our son enjoys decorating a three dimensional box as a change of pace from just plain paper. It was a tip from a friend who just happens to be an art therapist and it has reignited his enthusiasm for his crayons, markers, pencils and paint.
When the mood strikes we dig a box out of our recycling and tape it up. If you find a box size that works particularly well for your child (or would like to preserve their work) you can also "gift wrap" a box with paper. We used art paper that comes on a roll but you could also use the reverse side of gift wrap. This is an especially good tip, we think, if you don't have room for an art easel at home.
We're saving up cardboard toilet paper and paper towel rolls next. Try it with your toddler!
(Images: Carrie McBride)
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Comments (5)
The other day, in a panic after noticing that we were out of craft paper for munchkin to paint on, I handed her a 2 litre cola bottle from the recycle bin, not sure what her reaction would be. She loved it, and it can be displayed a lot more places then usual paper. Turned out great! Going to try this box idea, next.
love this idea- and super cute smile in the second pic!
I will try this today, what a good idea!
I made this same discovery a year or so ago. It was an a-ha moment.
Left over cardboard from flat packed furniture or from large appliances is also fun as your child can do huge scribbles and really let loose.
My daughter really enjoys drawing on inflated balloons with a thick marker (less likely to pop!). Now she is a couple of years older she has started drawing faces on them. We seem to have an endless supply of balloons and this is a bit of fun every so often. I suppose you could draw on them before you blow them up and then have fun seeing the design appear as you inflate the balloon.