Flour + Water + Food Coloring...

= a FANTABULOUS day of painting with Little Miss Sayita :)

I haven't mentioned to many people but there was a change in my work schedule. A bittersweet change but a change that had many advantages such as spending 2 whole days during the work week home with my little miss. Because of this, Mommy had to start coming up with ideas on what to do to keep my little toddler busy during the day. Again, Pinterest came to the rescue! 

During my daily visit to Pinterest, I found this pin from the BowerPower Blog. Make your own non-toxic paint at home? Yes, please! Who knew flour + water + food coloring would make paint safe enough for toddlers to use? It was perfect since we have "that kid" that puts EVERYTHING in their mouth. Even at age 2, we will find Saya chewing on paper, coins and even old crumbs (yes!) -- Eek!

Anyway, I decided that Saya and I were going to have a little fun!

For the paint, I used equal parts flour and water. I used separate containers or in this case plastic cups and put about a cup of each and then stirred until lumps disappeared. I then added food coloring. I had my Wilton gel food coloring, so I used them. You don't have to use much food coloring to get the desired colors, so I would suggest adding a teensy bit.

I thought the grass would be the best place for Saya to get down and dirty, so I rolled out some thick paper that my MIL purchased for Saya to use as her canvas. A "bucket" of water and paper towels helped complete the scene.

To get her started, I dumped paint on a few spots through the paper and told Saya to make a mess, which I thought would have made her excited but the reaction I got was a bit surprising. She did everything she could to not make a mess. It was pretty funny! But in Saya fashion, it didn't take her too long to warm up to the idea. 10 minutes in and she was starting to paint herself.

This was the beginning of the end...

 Yup, she is painting her hand. Did you notice the yellow, right foot?

And for the grand finale!

Look at that sweet little face! Even painted in blue, she is one adorable child (if I don't say so myself) ;).

I have to say that I think this was a great project for the both of us. Saya seemed to like it once she got going. I was extremely happy that she was happy. The best part was that I spent 0 dollars on it! This is just one of many activities I can do with Saya for FREE which makes Mommy and Papi's wallet nice and happy.

What fun and cheap activities do you do with your child? I'm looking for more ideas.