Edible Paint
Cooking with young children is another wonderful way to blend creativity with sensory exploration. This edible paint recipe is perfect for toddlers who are still exploring the world through taste! This recipe turns snack time into art time, showing families that creativity can happen anywhere, even in the kitchen.
You'll Need:
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
Natural food coloring or fruit/vegetable purees
Small bowls for mixing
Paint Brushes or fingers
Large paper or a clean high chair tray
Make It:
Divide the yogurt into small bowls (one for each color)
Let your child help add drops of food coloring to each bowl
Mix together—this is great for practicing stirring motions!
For natural colors, try: mashed blueberries (blue/purple), mashed strawberries (pink/red), or pureed spinach (green)
The Creative Fun
Set up your child with the edible paint and let them explore! They can paint with brushes, fingers, or even their whole hands. The beauty is that if they taste it, it's completely safe and even nutritious.
Learning Opportunities
Color mixing: "What happens when we mix the red and yellow?"
Texture exploration: Smooth, cool, thick, thin
Sensory development: Touch, smell, taste, and sight all engaged
Fine motor skills: Brush control and finger movements
Following directions: Simple steps they can help with
Pro Tips:
Do this activity before a planned bath time
Use a plastic tablecloth for easy cleanup
Take photos of their creations before they disappear
Let them help with cleanup—it's part of the learning process