The Essential List of Preschool Art Supplies
Photo by Sharon McCutcheon from Pexels
When you begin any new venture, even after we have done the research, we are still wondering where to start. Often, we are looking for a friend who has “been there, done that”. Look no further. I am you your friend, and I’m here to help!
“Children are naturally creative. It is our job to give them the freedom, materials, and space to let their creativity blossom to its full potential”- Jean Van’t Hul
If you are just starting out doing preschool activities with your child, you don’t need EVERYTHING! Just the essentials. Here are my top 10 picks. All of the supplies are relatively inexpensive, and easily accessible. Some of the items can be purchased for $1! Ready, set, go!
- Construction Paper– The colors can accommodate a variety of themes. You will find that it is slightly weightier than copy paper. I love to make paper chains with construction paper and count down to special events. It’s so fun to tear off the links one by one.
- Copy Paper– What could be greater than a blank slate for your child’s imagination? Copy paper is great for doodling, which I truly appreciate because there is absolutely no expectation of a doodle. Talk about goof-proof!
- Markers– Comes in many colors and themes, length, broad and fine line, scented, washable, stampers, etc… You get the picture. I like to have kids draw designs with the markers on coffee filters and fill a spray bottle and lightly spritz with water so the colors bleed. You and make flowers or hanging decorations. It makes a cool tie-dye effect.
- Crayons– Endless array of colors, non-toxic, I repeat non-toxic! I know from personal experience. One less call to Poison Control! (Sorry, bad joke!) Crayon resist art is a fun way to use crayons, because the wax repels water color paint. Google it for examples and inspiration.
- Paint– Finger paint is great for young toddlers to experience the feel of this material on their little fingers. Water color- a little goes a long way an children can control the saturation of color by how much product they pick up with their brush. Tempera- It is classic, comes in a range of sizes for whatever you foresee your need to be (the gallon size for multiple children, or a kid who really loves art!. Works well with marble painting (Adult supervision is required). You can also add items to the paint to adjust the consistency, ex: salt. Liquid watercolor- This literally changed my life. I learned about it at work. You can even use this in the water table or a semi-shallow plastic bin. Great for eye dropper painting and coffee filter art. Another easy activity that you can do outdoors is pour a packet of unsweetened flavored drink mix into a spray bottle with a small amount of water. Next, hang a white poster board on a fence or lay it on a safe paved area or sidewalk and spray paint(Bonus: it smells yummy!) If you would like to adjust the brightness, go ahead and change the amount of water to drink mix ratio (Tip: use 3-5 spray bottles from the dollar store.) When working with children it is important to engage as many of the senses as possible (Don’t forget to ask open ended questions!).
- Pencils/Colored Pencils– Another basic art medium offering a different tactile sense. Pencils can be standard size, chubby, long, mini, triangular, mechanical, charcoal, some colored pencils are even marbled or swirled. Pencils are great for tracing, outlining, and coloring in tighter spaces.
- Scissors– A wonderful fine motor tool to cut, snip, and maneuver with. Not just just for paper (think playdoh). They can be right or left-handed. Scissors are also available with a decorative edge to do things like create a zig-zag. Making paper snowflakes with scissors is still a classic project as are crowns and paper lanterns!
- Glue (Liquid/Stick)– Liquid offers a nice flow and is ideal for heavier items like pompoms and uneven surfaces. Glue sticks are perfect for younger children to grasp, not to mention it dries quickly. Both are fairly easy to clean. Glue can be used to make slime which is an obvious option. However you can write or make designs on paper and sprinkle with glitter, sand, or confetti to create a 3D feel and let dry.
- Tape (Masking/ Scotch/Washi/Duct)– Adhesives that come in many forms. Each has a different purpose and aesthetic. With an opaque tape like washi or masking, you can make a track for vehicles, or boundaries for a race. Even a hopscotch grid or a growth chart (I thought this was really cool!) The possibilities are endless.
- Old Rags– Reusable, for cleaning spills, sticky, messy, hands, and wiping tables.
10 More Favorites
- Erasers
- Bubble Wrap
- Coffee Filters
- Plastic Eye Droppers
- Sponges
- Bingo Dabbers
- Baby Wipes
- Paper Towels
- Art Smock
- GLITTER!!!
You see, these seeming ordinary art supplies can be used to create something extraordinary once you know what to do with them. Now you have the purpose and a few ideas; get out there and make something with your children.
What are your favorites and why? Drop me a line in the comments section. I look forward to hearing from you!
