Grab some blocks and paint and let’s have fun with block printing! Blocks aren’t just for building. We use them with paint for block printing with toddlers and preschoolers. This block printing idea works great for home or in the classroom.
Block Painting Activity for Kids
What can you paint with blocks? Paper and more! What we love about this block printing activity idea is that it works well for kids of all ages, even the younger kids like toddlers and preschoolers.
Related: 11 of the best art projects for kids
Kids innately want to explore the world around them. They are figuring out cause and effect relationships. When doing arts and craft with them, focus on providing as many different materials and processes as possible.
How to do block printing with kids
Place a variety of small dishes with different coloured paints and blocks on the table. Vary the paints each day and let them experiment:
- Put out different colours.
- Use paints with or without glitter.
- Offer thick or thin paint.
- Try different shapes.
Use different kinds of paper. You can use plain, coloured, or textured paper. You can even use cardboard and boxes for a more interesting experience.
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Supplies needed for block printing
Instructions for block printing
Step 1
Put a different color paint in a small paper plate or other small container. Gather your blocks and have them ready. I like to use one block per color at first just to keep the colors separate for the early part of the art project.
Step 2
Experiment with different ways to dip the blocks into the paint. Stand the blocks on their end, on their side, and even dip the corners. For blocks that roll, try rolling them (don’t be afraid to get a little messy), or even sweep them across the paper.
What about block printing for older children?
For older children, you can explore the patterns and algebra with block printing. Try a variation of this math art project inspired by Klee with block printing.
Another idea is to have older kids make paint with these homemade paint recipes. Or try this historical egg paint recipe.
Our finished art using block printing for kids
Prep Time
5 minutes
Active Time
15 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Difficulty
easy
Estimated Cost
$1
Materials
- Assorted blocks
- Paper
- Paint in various colors
Instructions
- Dip the blocks into the paint and stamp, roll, or sweep it onto the paper.
More ways to experiment with art from Kids Activities Blog
Have you tried block printing with the kids? How did it go?