Rainbow swirl paint

It always feels more like spring when you have a rainbow of colors in the classroom, so  our children whipped up their own rainbow swirl paint and in the process, we were able to spend time talking about the idea of color blending…

Rainbow swirl paint by Teach Preschool

Each child had their own individual cup to fill with paint and could choose from any of the rainbow colors we had out on the table.  We store our paint in refillable squeeze bottles which makes it easier for the children to squeeze out their own paint…

Rainbow swirl paint by Teach Preschool

To get started with this interesting approach towards blending colors, the children squeezed a layer of each color of paint into their cups. The children were encouraged to place only one squeeze of each color in their cups so they could see each new layer of color as they added more color on top.

Rainbow swirl paint by Teach Preschool

Some children chose to layer their colors in rainbow order, while others just used their favorite colors.  The children definitely enjoyed creating the layers of paint and now it was time to see what will happen next…

Rainbow swirl paint by Teach Preschool

Once the children finished layering their paint, it was time to dip the paint brush in the paint and then swirl it around on their paper…

Rainbow swirl paint by Teach Preschool

We encouraged the children to dip their paintbrush straight down into their cup and then pull straight back up. The challenge was to not stir the paint in their cup, but rather to wait and stir (or swirl) their paint on the paper…

Rainbow swirl paint by Teach Preschool

If the children stirred their paint too much in their cup, they would realize that their colors would become muddled and the different colors would get lost before they had a chance to put it on the paper.  So the goal was to dip their paintbrush and wait to mix and twirl their paintbrush all over their paper. Once the paintbrush was on the paper the children were able to see brushstrokes that had a blend of all color they chose…

Rainbow swirl paint by Teach Preschool

Rainbow swirl paint by Teach Preschool

Each child’s paint looked different on the paper.  A few of them were predominantly red, but small hints of all the other colors showed through…

Rainbow swirl painting by Teach Prechool

Rainbow swirl paint by Teach Preschool

This little guy’s paint was unique in that it was mostly blues and greens…

Rainbow swirl paint by Teach Preschool

Rainbow swirl paint by Teach Preschool

As the children explored the process, the colors  of paint continued to blend together, but the children were fascinated to see what blend of colors would come next with each stroke of the paint brush…

Rainbow swirl paint by Teach Preschool

The key point to keep in mind was that what was most interesting to the children was creating layers and blends of colors. The children were not concerned with creating a rainbow or anything specific. For the children, the focus was all about exploring color…

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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.'

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