Northern Girl in a Southern State

One of the benefits of being a transplant to a warmer locale is enjoying doing things you normally could not do at this time of year.  Although I do miss fall, don't get me wrong, I can't say I mind not freezing either.  I know, I'm a contradiction.  But, if I were back in Michigan my kids would not have done this yesterday:

Note the bare feet!

I credit Pinterest for many of the activities I do with my kids.  There are so many creative people out there, and having one place where so many of those ideas are shared is invaluable!  I found this idea on Pinterest, but, unfortunately, I cannot say where it originated; the educated person in me cringes every time I see someone pin or use something without proper citation.  

I love this activity.  My daughter already knows how to mix colors, but this is new territory for my son.  Both the making and the painting can be educational and fun!

Sidewalk "Paint"

Supplies:

• muffin tin
• corn starch
• water
• food coloring
• cheap paint brushes
• old clothes for your kiddos to wear

Directions:

1. Put approximately 1Tbs. corn starch into each muffin spot.
2. Use your food coloring to add 2-3 drops of color into muffin cup to make desired colors (if you are brave, have your kids help with this and teach them how to combine colors to make new ones!).
3. Add water to fill each cup 2/3 full.
4. Stir gently until mixed.
5. Take your kiddos outside and let them paint your driveway or sidewalk.

Just a disclaimer, I think it's obvious but the food coloring has the potential to stain.  The corn starch mixture should wash off your driveway but no guarantees for clothing/skin!  This is not a clean activity.

Painting the driveway became body art.

If your kids are like mine, this activity can get messy!

Sometimes the dog doesn't know what to think either.

This activity kept them busy for almost two hours.  Any activity that lasts that long and is so cheap is a keeper.  Thanks again, Pinterest!