Grade Level: First Grade, Second Grade, Third Grade, Fourth Grade, Fifth Grade, Sixth Grade

Environmental Art for Kids by MaryAnn F. Kohl and Cindy Gainer

Over two hundred projects for painting and drawing, sculpture and mobiles, collage and printing, weaving and crafts, and handmade art supplies emphasize recycling and natural materials.

This art & science project book is one of the great open-ended activity books for children from author MaryAnn Kohl. It is filled with easy, open-ended and child-safe art activities to encourage process, discovery and exploration.

Imagination is unlimited as children create their own unique experiences with 200 hands-on environmental art activities. Materials are readily available, recycled or found in nature. These captivating activities foster awareness and a love for the earth.

MBA Award, WINNER, Environmental Book

Teachers, parents and especially kids will love this book...great for children from age 6 through age 12.

Example activity:

Natural Finger Paint - from Good Earth Art

Materials:

• 1/2 cup finely chopped soap chips
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 6 cups water
• large sauce pan
• colored chalks, or chalk pastels (crushed)
• storage containers with lids (margarine containers, glass jars)

Process:

1. In a large sauce pan, combine the soap chips, cornstarch, and water.

2. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. (Adult supervision suggested.)

3. Remove when mixture has thickened.

4. Pour into individual containers.

5. Place one color of crushed chalk in each container and mix while it is still warm.

6. Let cool.

7. Store in covered containers.

8. Use as any finger paint by placing a dollop of the mixture on paper and smearing it around with hands and fingers.

Variations:

Add other textures, scents, or ingredients to any recipe and experiment with results. Try adding:

salt, coffee grounds, sand
vanilla, cinnamon, perfume, liquid hand soap
talcum powder, glitter