Wee Inspirations

Eat Your Art

  1. The Basic Idea

    Raw veggies like broccoli, peppers and cucumber can be introduced from one year old – and they also make great paintbrushes! Mix yoghurt with a little natural food colouring , and grab a big tray as your canvas. Dip the veggies in the yoghurt, start creating your masterpiece and see if your wee one follows your lead.

  2. Over to you, wee one

    Too much choice is overwhelming – start with only a couple of veggie ‘brushes’ or colours of yoghurt paint, so your wee one can make decisions and explore different effects. Gradually add more ‘brushes’ and colours so the experience lasts longer.

  3. Cheeky Bonuses

    • Food can offer great, sensory experiences
    • explore them away from the pressure of mealtimes
    • Helps develop fine motor control
    • Great, low pressure way to explore new foods
    • If they decide to eat their paintbrush they’re getting their five a day

  4. Variations

    • Spaghetti brushes! If you’re feeling crafty, pop an elastic band around a bundle of uncooked spaghetti and prop them in an inch or two of boiling water until the ends are softened but not soggy
    • If you’re worried about mess, set up the whole experience in a dry bath or shower, then rinse it all away afterwards

  5. And Remember...

    Your wee one may prefer to mush the paint about with their hands. They may prefer to chew the “brushes”. Be led by their interests and don’t stress about a finished product – it’s all about being in the moment and exploring the sensations.