On Wednesday, June 11th, before bringing your child to class, stop by our woodworking station with your little maker! Makers of all ages can get involved – from exploring materials of different textures and making choices about which to use to sanding and decorating with paint sticks and loose parts.
Stop by for 5 minutes– or 15. Build memories with us as you create creative process art with or for dad!
Overview:
Together, you and your child will create a wooden “exploration board” by sanding, painting and gluing or taping loose parts onto a baseboard. It’s about process, play, and memory-making. We’ll have all the materials ready for you!
Materials:
- A flat wooden board
- Paint sticks
- Modeling clay
- Washi tape
- Safety goggles
- Nontoxic wood glue
- Assorted wood scraps (different shapes and textures)
- Sandpaper (fine grit, for safe toddler hands)
🛠️ What Your Child Can Do:
- Sanding: Rub wood with sandpaper (supervised)
- Painting: Use paint sticks to paint the baseboard or pieces
- Choosing Pieces: Pick which shapes or scraps to add
- Talking About Textures: Feel and describe the wood (bumpy, smooth, etc.)
- Gluing: Help squeeze glue and press on scraps
💡 Why It’s Great:
- Encourages motor skill development
- Allows safe tool practice
- Totally process-focused
- Becomes a keepsake or evolving artwork
Step-by-Step Instructions:
🥽 1. Prep Together
- Lay out all materials on a protected surface.
- Let your child explore textures: “Which piece is bumpy? Which is smooth?”
🖌️ 2. Paint the Baseboard
- Use tempera paint sticks to paint the large board.
- Let your child pick the colors or mix them.
🪵 3. Sand and Paint the Scraps
- Optionally, help your child gently sand edges of wood pieces.
- You can use paint sticks to paint those pieces too!
🧷 4. Glue on the Pieces
- Together, squeeze glue onto the back of each scrap.
- Press onto the board in any arrangement.
💙 5. Add Personal Touches
- Take a polaroid together and add it to your board!
- Talk about what you’re building and who it’s for.
☀️ 6. Dry & Display
