Dots & Spots
Why play this way?
This open-ended art activity invites creative exploration with everyday objects. Your little ones will have so much fun as they experiment with color mixing, compare sizes, & strengthen their fine motor skills.
Caregiver Tip: Tell them what you see! ‘I notice lots of big blue dots over here and one small red dot over here.’ Focus on what you observe, not what you like. This builds your little one’s confidence, places value on the creative process, and invites them to tell you more about their art.
SET THE STAGE FOR PLAY: 3 minutes
Ready
Paint in small bowls or plates (pick a few colors)
Large piece(s) of paper
Materials to make circular prints such as:
- Cotton balls
- Straws
- Orange slices
- Q-tips
- Pencil erasers
- Loofas
- Pom-poms
- Corks
- Toilet paper rolls
- Cut sponges
- Jars and lids
Set
Set up your art studio!
- Protect your work area with newspaper, a tarp, or a plastic tablecloth.
- Lay out your collected materials.
Play!
Make your own spots & dots masterpiece!
Dip each material into the paint to make all sorts of spots and dots.
- Will your colors mix?
- Will your dots & spots overlap?
- What happens when you press firmly? Gently?
What else can you use to make dots & spots?
