Ever since I saw this activity here on The Artful Parent many moons ago it has been a favorite ” go to ” activity in so many situations. Mostly I have used it while prepping dinner, but it has served as the perfect activity during long and short car rides, restaurant visits, and random times of the day. It’s such an EASY, yet stimulating, game and can be played so many ways + it’s the most requested one in the house. First, have your child (or children) obtain a drawing surface … paper or sketchpad. (sketchpads are great to see the progression of creativity… maybe even leave a few in the kitchen solely for “simon says art” ). Then say Simon says “draw a sailboat, or a train, or a jungle scene”. Another idea is progression drawing. Simon says “Draw a flower. Now, Simon says “draw someone picking the flower”. The possibilities are endless. Have them fill the page with their creations. When working with different ages it sometimes works well to give them each something different to draw. We have progressed from simple shapes to very detailed people with armor and actions and detailed journeys and adventures. This is also a great art activity to engage the entire family. Cover the table with brown kraft paper and fill it with drawings. Recently, after some blank moments as “Simon” I enlisted siblings to choose the theme for each other. This has worked out so well I can’t believe it took me so long to think of this version. I really have found that the simplest of activities have been the most rewarding and stress free.
This activity occupies these two very well while I’m making dinner.
ENJOY!
Julie
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