Sidewalk chalk is a great toy for the kids, especially when it’s warm outside. What child doesn’t like to scribble-scrabble and draw pictures on the sidewalk or backyard patio? But sometimes kids can use a little bit of direction to make sure they don't cover the whole block with doodles.
This activity is perfect for those Spring and Summer days when you and your child want to make the most of the beautiful weather. She'll learn about her family and get a chance to show off her sidewalk chalk artistic prowess!
What You Need:
- Sidewalk Chalk (in many colors)
- Outdoor drawing area - could be a cement sidewalk, or backyard patio, or the black top at the playground.
What You Do:
- Get out as much sidewalk chalk as you have in the house!
- Tell your child to draw a square for each member of the family. Go over with her who is in her family, and use this opportunity to talk about where each person lives, what they look like (if she hasn't met them yet) and how he or she is related to your child.
- If she needs help drawing a square, draw one out for her so she can see how big it should it be. Make it large enough so that she has enough room to make big faces (with lots of expressions!)
- Ask her to try and use at least three colors when drawing her family portraits. This will encourage her to concentrate on the specific characteristics like hair color, eye color, etc.
- Try playing a game when she's done. See if you can guess who is who. Ask your child to write each family member's name by their portrait when you guess correctly. Then invite the whole family over to look at the beautiful sidewalk of family portraits!
Not only is this activity a fun way for your child to spend some time outside on a beautiful day, but it is also a great way for her to learn more about her family tree and practice her writing and drawing skills while she's at it. And though your kindergartener certainly have a blast doing this activity, this is also something kids (and parents) at any age will enjoy!
By Lisa M. Cope
Lisa M. Cope is a freelance writer who focuses on parenting and child development issues, among many others. She is the mother of two boys, ages five and two.
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