Symmetrical line drawing and paint rubbing in pre-k

We have been doing lots of paint rubbings lately in our class that has produced some interesting artwork. Our pre-k students have particularly found an interest in symmetrical paint rubbings…

Our discussions on symbols has produced greater interest in drawing and often times the children will ask us to do some drawings with them or even for them.  Miss Abby introduced this idea to the kids and so they were hot on the path for making symmetrical paint rubbings. So far, Miss Abby and I have been drawing simple lines for the children to paint over. I will encourage the children to draw their own lines in future paint rubbing sessions but since this was their first time trying this out (and drawing half a shape is quite a complex concept), Miss Abby and I asked the children what they would like us to draw for them and we got them started…

The children started by folding their paper in half, then we drew half of an object on the paper. Next the children painted over the lines or filled in the spaces of the object but still being careful to only paint the drawing side of the paper…

On the first day we tried this, the children used paint bottles to squeeze paint onto their lines…

On the second day, the children used paint brushes to paint the lines on their paper. The lines are drawn in a very light pencil…

Once the children have painted their lines, then they fold the paper in half and press or rub the back of it…

Then the children open the paper to see the beautiful symmetrical design left on the page.  It is almost magical, to the children, to see their design open up and be on both sides of the paper…

This is one of our turkey symmetrical designs…

Here is another turkey…

And another turkey. You will notice that this child only painted the feathers before folding the paper then he decided to paint the feet…

I am sure we will be making more symmetrical designs as this was a very interesting and fun process for the kids. I think it is important to note here that before introducing the symmetrical paint rubbing process, we spent an entire day on just paint rubbings without the pencil drawings…


Deborah J Stewart

Deborah J Stewart

Every time I think I know everything I need to know about teaching young children, God says, "Hold on a minute!" and gives me a new challenge.

Let me tell ya...

With each new challenge that you overcome, you will find yourself better equipped and more passionate about teaching young children.

God didn't call wimps to lead, teach, or care for His children. Nope, he has high expectations, so get ready. You will have to give your very best but after teaching for over 30 years, I can tell you that it is a wonderful and rewarding journey.

Whenever your calling feels hard, just remember, 'He who began a good work in you (and in the children you serve) will be faithful to complete it.'

Subscribe to My Newsletter

Latest Blog Posts

P is for Pizza!

While learning about the letter “P” we decided to explore with pizza! Pizza is an all-time favorite food for many preschoolers, and activities involving pizza

Read More »