Preview draft. Activities have not been tested with caregivers.
Art · The activity desk
Rainbow fold print
Press and unfold a page to make a mirrored rainbow-colored print.
Let's play →
A little plan for play
Open interactive activity →Add to play journal →What you need
One full sheet of paper, small amounts of washable child-appropriate paint, and a brush
Age: 3–5 years; choose for the individual child.
Stay with the child throughout. Check the space and supplies, including anything within reach of younger siblings. Skip any activity that is unsuitable. Stop if a child puts non-food material in their mouth or becomes distressed. Use intact books, full sheets of paper, a large child-appropriate crayon and a clean, dry towel. Follow product labels; remove torn paper and keep broken crayons and caps away from children. Adult handles and stores supplies.
Set up: Cover the table. An adult checks paint labels and sensitivities and folds the paper in half, then opens it again.
Adult's role: Portion the paint, stay beside the child, and help open the page slowly.
Let's make it happen
- Brush a few short colorful lines on one half of the paper near the fold.
- Fold the clean half over the paint and press gently with a flat hand.
- Open the paper and compare the marks on both sides.
Make it simpler: Use one paint color and make one broad mark before folding.
Clean up: An adult washes the brush and work surface and helps the child wash hands. Leave the picture flat to dry.
Use washable, age-appropriate paint. Keep paint out of mouths and supervise throughout.