All Painting, All Dancing

The basic idea

Play music with a clear, strong beat and use your whole arm to make BIG sweeping lines in time to the music. A big roll of paper or a large cardboard box would be great for this, but you can also use chalk or a wet paintbrush on slabs.

Over to you, wee one

Think big! This idea encourages mark-making that uses big, fun movements instead of having to sit down ‘nicely’. Don’t try and control what your wee one does – the music, and your example alongside them, is enough inspiration – they’ll join in when they’re ready.

Cheeky bonuses

• Multi-sensory, links sound to visuals
• Makes mark-making fun and relevant for wee ones who don’t like sitting still
• Links big (gross motor) movements to small (fine motor) movements

Variations

• Try varying the music – soundtracks to movies can be a great way to introduce different moods and tempos
• Get the paper taped to the wall, or a fence, or even the underside of a table, for a different dance/paint experience

And remember…

This idea is ALL about abstract act, so its a great way to get involved with painting or drawing without worrying about how ‘good’ your art is – it doesn’t have to look like anything!