When planning art activities for preschoolers, be ready to introduce different ways to use paint. Sponge painting can be done in a variety of ways.
Consider using alphabet sponges with the alphabet shapes glued on plastic film cans.
Art activities provide opportunities for conversation about a Bible story, a Bible verse, or the Bible truth for the session.
Supplies for Alphabet Art:
- alphabet sponges (thick sponge letters of the alphabet)
Check the Crayola® displays in craft stores or discount stores for packaged
sponges or order from places such as Amazon or Discount School Supply.
- plastic film cans (easy to clean and easy for a child to hold)
- glue gun/hot glue (for teacher-use only)
- liquid tempera paint/clear plate or foil pan
- paper
Instructions:
1. Use a glue gun and hot glue to attach the sponges to the bottoms of film cans.
(Other glue will not work.)
2. Pour the paint in a clear plate or foil pan.
3. Press a sponge letter into the paint, and then press onto paper.
4. Allow the paint to dry.
Teaching Tips:
- Arrange the alphabet sponges (A-Z) on a table. Notice children as they name letters.
- Describe plans to print words. Provide a copy of the words.
- Guide a child to find the letters needed to spell the words.
- Show the child how to hold the film can with the alphabet sponge. As he presses his sponge in the paint, guide him to press the letter on the paper.
- Continue until the word is painted on the paper.
- Look at words such as God loves you and say: “God loves you and I love you (John 15:9).”
Alternate Idea: Invite a child to use the alphabet sponges to “paint” his name on
paper.
Additional information about sponge painting:
Sponge shapes such as animals and flowers can be also be purchased and used with the plastic film cans.
Click Here for a Printable Version
