One of the best, most effective techniques that help preschoolers gain skills is hands-on learning. Studies have shown that this type of kinesthetic learning, or where a student carries out physical activities rather than listening to a lecture, is much more effective in helping children gain a better understanding of the subjects they are practicing.
When preschoolers are putting projects together, creating crafts, or using familiar materials in new ways, they’re constructing meaning and understanding new concepts with things they’ve gotten comfortable with. It’s no secret that children learn through using all their senses, and by touching and manipulating things during lessons, the learning comes more easily through these visual and spatial activities.
At ages 3 through 5, children thrive in hands-on learning activities. And nothing is more hands-on than finger-painting! Part science project, part artistic expression, and part sensory experience, finger-painting gives children first-hand experience with the science of color theory and color mixing.
Creating a Successful Project
When setting up a finger-painting activity at home, use these tips from our experts.
- Art smocks are a must. Even if it is just an old button-down shirt that can cover a little one’s clothing to protect in case of spills. It’s best to not have to worry about the mess during a learning activity.
- Set out small bowls of paint, providing the primary colors and a few common favorites. This allows preschoolers to freely choose and experiment with their own curiosities.
- Find specialty finger paint paper that won’t tear or rip due to over saturation. If you don’t have any on hand, parchment paper can work in a pinch.
The Process of Color Theory Study
Encourage your preschooler to select two colors. They can put the paint directly on each side of the paper, or one in each hand if they enjoy the sensory experience. Ask them to predict what color their two colors will make when they mix. Let them mix the two colors slowly and see what color it creates.
Going Deeper
It is also a great idea to let your preschooler experiment with proportions. What happens when a tiny bit of red is mixed into a whole lot of blue? Ask them to think about how they can make their color lighter or darker based on what they have available. What about if they mix 3 colors? There is no limit to the color theory experiments you can do with something as simple as finger-paint!
If you are looking to enroll your child into an excellent preschool program that offers hands-on activities and encourages a play-to-learn environment, you don’t need to look any further than Kids ‘R’ Kids Avalon Park! Call us today to find out more about our preschool curriculum and amazing campus.