If you're looking for a super cool (literally!) and fun activity to keep your little ones engaged this summer, I've got just the thing for you: ice painting! Trust me, this activity will have your preschooler giggling with excitement and all you need is a bucket of ice, some paint brushes, and a splash of creativity!

Materials Needed:

To get started, you only need a few simple supplies:

1. A bucket of ice cubes
2. Paint brushes (preferably large and chunky)
3. Washable paint in various colors

Set Up:

I set up this activity outside because I wanted to the clean up to be easy! I brought a couple tables outside and placed plastic sensory bins filled with ice on top. 

Then I grabbed some paint brushes and set out bowls of washable paint - the more colors the better! Don't be afraid to mix it up with different brush sizes for some variety in brushstrokes.

Benefits of Ice Painting:

This activity might seem simple but ice painting offers a whole host of benefits for your preschooler's development. Here are a few reasons why I absolutely love it:

1. Sensory Exploration: Painting on ice provides a unique sensory experience for children.

2. Fine Motor Skills: As your little artist grasps the paintbrush and applies the paint onto the melting ice, they're enhancing their fine motor skills. It helps develop their hand-eye coordination and strengthens the muscles in their hands and fingers, preparing them for future writing and drawing activities.

3. Creativity and Imagination: Ice painting is a blank canvas for your child's imagination to soar. There are no rules or limitations, allowing them to express themselves freely.

4. Science Learning: Painting on ice is also a fantastic way to introduce simple science concepts to your preschooler. They can observe how the ice melts and see firsthand how the colors blend and change as the ice transforms into water. It's a playful way to explore cause and effect and learn about the properties of water.

But the best part of this whole activity? I got to finish my entire cup of coffee while watching two toddlers! If that's not a win, then I don't know what is! 

Remember, the best part of ice painting is not just the final product, but the fun you'll create along the way. So, grab that bucket of ice, let the colors flow, and let the magic of ice painting unfold in your own home or classroom. 

What's Next?

Don't worry, I've got plenty of ideas for you to keep those crazy kiddos busy all summer long. If you tried ice painting and loved it as much as we did, then I have just the activity for you!

Recently, we set up this snow cone stand dramatic play center (except we didn't pretend and actually made snow cones!)

Read more about how you can re-create this pretend play set up for summer with your preschool learners here:

Beat the Heat with a Homemade Snow Cone Stand for Preschoolers