Finger Painting for the First Time

Visitors to the Creativity Studio often ask if their children are old enough for the drop-in activity. The process of art making, including the handling of a variety of materials and the sensory exploration involved is beneficial to all ages of children. Although we want to consider safety with the materials, we encourage exploration!

During our week of finger painting, James W., six months old, came into the Studio with his older brother and mother (Nicole).  James was in a front sling ready to participate! Nicole sat with James and encouraged him to explore the paint, slap the paper, and see the marks that he was creating. Making art is a series of actions and/or decisions that have a specific outcome. For anyone observing James the sheer pleasure of putting both hands into the sticky, wet material and changing a blank white paper to one covered in marks was obvious.

Nicole’s choice to sit at the table where James would have paint within reach and also place herself in a position of getting covered in paint is a testament to her ability to facilitate James’ experience. The success of most experiences we have with our children depends largely on how we facilitate their experience. As parents and educators/facilitators, we strive to foster an interest in exploring our world around us and to encourage our children to be active participants. 

Rachel Davis is our guest blogger and Program Developer with DuPage Children's Museum. The  Creativity Studio is open for drop-in programs from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., Monday - Saturday and 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., Tuesday - Sunday. We look forward to seeing you!