Differentiation

Make Printmaking With Kindergarten Easy and Fun!

The thought of printmaking can be stressful, but put the tools in the hands of Kindergarteners, and it’s about enough to push anyone over the edge! Luckily, there are so many fun untraditional ways to do printmaking with all ages. My personal favorite way to provide a low-mess and time effective printmaking opportunity in kindergarten is to use thumbprints. The options with thumbprints are endless. One proven successful ideas is make insects, and in this case, ladybugs.

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Students are allowed to print their thumb (only ONE thumb may be dipped into the inkpad) up to 10 times on a jar template that is provided. (Cutting this out is another great way for students to practice cutting on a curve.). Then, students can add details using thin tip markers. Taking it to the next level with the background would be up to the individual teacher. Students can also add other details of their choice into the jar, like sticks, rocks or grass.

If you are interested in trying this out, (it only takes one class period, or two if you focus on the background) you can download the jar template by clicking here.

Have you tried thumbprints with your students? What were the reactions? 

What are other ideas for printmaking in Kindergarten? 

Magazine articles and podcasts are opinions of professional education contributors and do not necessarily represent the position of the Art of Education University (AOEU) or its academic offerings. Contributors use terms in the way they are most often talked about in the scope of their educational experiences.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jessica Balsley

Jessica Balsley is AOEU’s Founder and a former AOEU Writer and elementary art educator. She is passionate about helping art teachers enhance their lives and careers through relevant professional development.

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