How to teach your child colors

Your child doesn't have to wait until kindergarten to learn colors. In fact, if you begin teaching your child colors as a toddler, your child will have a head start at the beginning of school or even preschool. Here are some steps you can take to teach your child colors.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Teach your child colors by taking note of the world around you. Children love to learn, and will soak in anything you point out. Talk about a beautiful red bird singing in your tree. Ask your child if the yellow car is his favorite. Tell your daughter that today she can wear her favorite pink sweater. By including the colors of common items, your child will automatically begin to learn them.

2. Use food to teach colors. Have a meal once a week that includes only foods of a certain color. Use food coloring or flavorings to make it fun and interesting. Point out how strawberry flavored milk, watermelon and salmon all look similar. Ask whether your child prefers this pink lunch or the green meal you had last week.

3. Use books to teach colors. Books like the classic Dr. Seuss "One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish" and the Scholastic favorite "Max Paints the House" are ideal for teaching your child colors. But don't stop there! When sharing your child's favorite story book, point out colors of items in the illustrations. Ask your child to point out "the orange duck" or "the purple frog." They will love the extra attention and focus from you, making them that much more willing to learn.

4. Have an art class at the kitchen table. Kids love creating artwork, especially when mom or dad get involved. Break out the crayons and coloring books, fingerpaints or play dough. Talk about the colors used in your child's artwork. Ask what each color reminds your child of.

5. Discuss colors with your child when watching television. Ask your child what color his favorite character is and what color the character's house is.