This month, the children enjoyed a creative and exciting art experience prepared by Jess. Using white oil pastels, Jess drew a variety of familiar pictures on white paper before inviting the children to reveal the hidden images using spray bottles filled with coloured water.
As the children sprayed the paper, they watched with excitement as the hidden drawings magically appeared. They eagerly identified the pictures they discovered, calling out names such as Spider-Man, Bluey, Chase, a dump truck, and a school bus. The element of surprise sparked curiosity and encouraged conversations as the children shared their discoveries with one another.
This activity also provided valuable opportunities to strengthen fine motor skills. At first, many children attempted to squeeze the spray bottles with one hand, but they quickly discovered that using both hands gave them the strength and control needed to create a spray. Through this process, the children developed hand strength, bilateral coordination, and hand-eye coordination while problem-solving and experimenting with different ways to make the bottles work.
Beyond the physical skills, the experience supported language development as children named and discussed the images they uncovered, while also encouraging careful observation and sustained engagement. The combination of art, exploration, and discovery created a joyful learning experience that fostered creativity, confidence, and perseverance.
As we continue to build on this learning, we will invite the children to create their own hidden drawings using white oil pastels before revealing them with coloured sprays. We will also encourage them to experiment with colour mixing, make predictions about the new colours they might create, and continue exploring art through hands-on, inquiry-based experiences.
