Epsom salts are great for grownup bath time—but did you know that they also make for an easy, low maintenance art activity for your kiddos?
Today’s at home art activity for children takes everyday materials you have at home and turns them into a sparkly painting experience. Use the sparkly paint to experiment with light and crystals, or even create a window sign that can cheer up your neighbors as they walk by.
Crystal Painting
Goals:
Learn about crystals
Create an uplifting message for neighbors
Children will:
Make salt paint
Use paint to draw a picture or write a message
Hang picture in the window
What you’ll need:
Hot water
Epsom salt
Cardboard
Small bowls
Paintbrush: optional
Food dye: optional
How to:
Start by making your paint mixture:
Mix equal parts hot water and salt
Add a small drop of dish soap
Stir until salt is dissolved
Pour the mixture into smaller bowls and add food coloring to each.
Use a paintbrush or your finger to paint on a sturdy piece of cardboard. Write a special message and hang it in your window for people passing by.
Once your painting dries, look at what is left on the cardboard. Can you spot the salt crystals? Try using a different salt, do the crystals look different?
Run your finger over your painting. How does it feel?
Look at your painting through the window outside. How do the crystals look on a sunny day versus a cloudy one?
Where else do you see crystals? Hint: think of a time it’s cold outside!