You and your kids may think sidewalk chalk is old news, but here are some fun ways to make it feel like a new toy.
Wet chalk draws with much more vibrant colors. Simply soak the chalk in a tub of water, or even a puddle, for a half hour or so. The change in color alone will occupy kids for a good chunk of time. If you are using wet chalk, the chalk will get used up quicker. The wet chalk lays down more chalk, hence the more vibrant colors, but it does mean the kids will go through the chalk quicker.
Let the kids draw on something unexpected – maybe the wall of a shed, or their play set, or even the lid to the sandbox. They can draw welcome home signs on the driveway for a working parent, or an additional personalized welcome mat for guests.
It’s fun to leave messages for friends with chalk. You can also draw hopscotch, shuffleboard, or targets for tossing bean bags, or targets for throwing Frisbees. You can also mush up bits in water and use it to paint with a brush.
For inspiration, do online searches for sidewalk chalk artists. Be prepared to be amazed! Some of these projects look incredibly realistic and three dimensional.
You can also make your own sidewalk chalk with Plaster of Paris, tempera paint, and water. It’s not hard and it’s a fun thing to do. Read the instructions here.
Your young scientists may be interested to know that chalk is made of natural mineral called gypsum. It’s also known as calcium sulfate and plaster of Paris. Calcium sulfate is used in many things. Who would have guessed what tofu, snack foods like Twinkies, drywall, and plaster have something in common? See if your kids can research and discover how plaster of Paris got its name.
One of things I like best about sidewalk chalk is that it washes away easily during a rain or with a few squirts from the hose.
Also See:
Frugal and Fun Chalk Activities