Okay I shared this idea on Instagram the other day and I have to put it here too! This is the simplest little outdoor/indoor fall art activity and each step is a fun invitation to connect to your little one. Plus, it’s something you don’t need to set up, and isn’t boring for mom to watch or participate in! Parents can join in on the art making process or focus on the photography portion.
🍂 Go on a walk and collect your natural materials.
✨ Pour materials onto a flat surface.
🖼 Arrange mini collages focusing on shapes, color, and texture.
📷 Practice photographing your artwork.
🍁 Return natural materials outside (or keep them for the next few projects I have for you!).
You can decide whether you want to model the collages for your child or just let them explore on their own. I modeled the butterfly for Emme, and she proceeded to immediately make her own butterfly (she is 3). In hindsight I would have just talked to her about the shapes we saw in our materials and what SHE thought we could make, or prompt her with verbal ideas for her to try.
For older children it may be a fun challenge to show them photos of animals and see if they can make them with their materials. I would not push the final product too hard with children under 4, they will mostly want to explore materials in a sensory way. They may not end up with a recognizable collage and that is totally cool. 😎
Another optional step is to glue collages together or use sticky back paper if you want to keep them beyond the photograph, or if you have a younger child so the pieces do not move so easily after they lay them down. I like the photographing route because it means no mess and I get to practice using my camera. 🥰 You can also of course allow children to photograph their own collages as we know as most children are pretty quick to learn how to take photos with a smartphone (and you can use a smartphone for this, too!).
Will you tag me if you and your kiddos make any collages? I can’t wait to see! 🥰
PS- Let this be your reminder that making art doesn’t have to be complicated or require a huge set-up or finished product. Enjoy the beautiful fall weather! 🌤🍂