How to Make Washable Paint for Kids

Children can use washable paint for face painting.

Washable paint for kids is quick and cheap to make. Children can use it for face painting, finger-painting or traditional painting with paper and a brush. Its advantage over other paints is that it is extremely easy to clean up. This means you won't have any difficulty getting it off your child's skin or out of her hair or clothes.

Things You'll Need

• 2 tbsp. white sugar
• 1/3 cup corn starch
• 1/4 cup dishwashing liquid
• Colored tempera paint or poster paint
• 4 small plastic containers

Instructions

1. Mix together 2 tbsp. white sugar and 1/3 cup corn starch in a saucepan. Pour 2 cups cold water slowly into the mixture, stirring well.

2. Place the pan over a high heat and bring to a boil. Turn down the heat and allow the liquid to simmer, stirring continually, until the liquid becomes a smooth clear gel with an even consistency. This will take approximately five minutes.

3. Take the saucepan off the heat and allow it to cool. Add 1/4 cup dishwashing liquid to the gel. Stir thoroughly before pouring the mixture into four small plastic containers.

4. Mix colored tempera paint or poster paint into each jar, 1 tsp. at a time, until you have the color you desire. Tempera paint is available from most craft stores.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep even washable paint away from delicate clothing and furniture.

• Keep children away from the stove and any hot liquid.

References

• "100's of Songs, Games and More for Preschoolers"; David C. Cook; 2003
• Polliwogged: Washable Finger Paint
• "Quick & Fun Learning Activities for 1 Year Olds"; Marla Pender McGhee; 1996
• "Encyclopaedia Of Child Care Welfare And Guidance In 2 Vols"; Vijaya Wadhwa; 1999