Children’s play sometimes grows from what’s happening in their world. The weather itself inspired rainbow fun with sidewalk chalk for a play-of-the-day.
Yesterday afternoon, the sun came out after the rain and there was a beautiful rainbow across the sky. Usually, we only see an arc but this one was a semi-circle. The one up above inspired another one far below, created with chalk on the sidewalk. With possible scattered showers it likely won’t be there for long, but it was fun for little hands to do.
Drawing on the sidewalk appeals to kids for several reasons. At this age, the small muscles in the hands and arms are still developing so coordinating all the necessary actions is tricky. It’s a challenge to draw with pencils and crayons on a sheet of paper. Sidewalks and driveways are very much bigger so it’s easier for drawing. As kids play with sidewalk chalk, they don’t have to sit on a chair or stand at an easel. They get to move all around. Legs and arms can go in any direction.
When kids draw on the sidewalk, not only does the family get to appreciate it, so does anyone else who walks by. Usually, the reaction of those passersby is positive. Children get smiles and compliments on their work. They get to interact and be noticed.
Even a line on a sidewalk or driveway makes an impact. Not all kids will be able to create a picture of something but random scribbles are still appealing. They are big and bright and easy to see. There’s a bit of mystery and magic too. Sidewalk art can change. It disappears after a while but kids may not see how it happens. Until then, it’s exciting to check and see if it’s still there.
A simple activity, this fun with sidewalk chalk had another plus—some time outside. Would this be a play idea for your child’s day?