At the end of last summer, we stocked up on summer supplies and put them away in a cabinet in our garage—who doesn’t love a good sale? So, as the weather got warmer, my kids were thrilled to see that I was well stocked with the basics for outdoor play – bubbles and boxes of sidewalk chalk – perfect for chalk art for kids!

Chalk Art for Kids

Even as a grown up, I love drawing with chalk—there is something nostalgic for me about scraped knuckles and a big canvas. 

But beyond the basics like drawing a hop-scotch board, there are dozens of ways to do chalk art for kids—you can trace shadows or make outlines of a body. One of our favorite chalk art activities is to smash and grate chalk! I know what you are thinking… why would I let my kid smash or grate a brand-new piece of chalk? 

Well… 

Benefits of Chalk Art for Kids

1. Using real tools like a grater or a hammer are important—they help to build hand eye coordination and arm strength for other activities like writing. 
2. Children love smashing, but it is important to learn when it is, and is not appropriate. It is great to be able to find safe opportunities to do this. My children are always pleasantly surprised when I give them permission to smash or crash something.  
3. Maybe your child is feeling frustrated—smashing and grating are great ways to channel their emotions. 
4. One of the best things about chalk art for kids is there is no waste! We sweep up the dust and use it in potions or painting. No need to throw out your dust—incorporate it into play! 
5. Because it is fun and simple! 

Try it: Smashing and Grating Chalk

Find a cheese grater or mallet. Demonstrate the proper way to use these tools so they do not scrape or hit their own fingers. Then, give your child a few pieces of chalk. This can be as many pieces as you want (4 is probably plenty). 

Once we have our pile of chalk dust, we put it in a small jar or container and mix with water for awesome chalk art for kids. The kids can use brushes (we usually use sponge brushes) to paint the sidewalk or a piece of paper. Add the water slowly (the more water you add, the more diluted the color).

Your kids will be thrilled that they can make a huge mess, and then thank Mother Earth for the easy clean up. Just wait for a rainy day. 

Happy smashing!

Jessie is a mom of two amazingly creative children–ages 4 and 2. She loves having her home full of sensory play and process art. Jessie also runs her own account, Hands In Handmade where you can find more inspiration for play or check out her sensory kits.

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