Toddler art activities are harder to plan than I originally thought.

I introduced crayons quite early (around 11 months), but my little one did not care for them. I introduced them again a few months later and she was mildly interested. So, I went back to the drawing board and researched the best activities and materials to present to my daughter. As well as when is the best time to introduce each one.

I like the Montessori approach to toddler art activities because it emphasizes that the process of creating is more important than the final product. This approach fosters creativity, independence, and critical thinking in children.

In the world of Montessori-inspired arts and crafts for toddlers, the focus is on exploration, experimentation, and the joy of creation.

Here are some engaging toddler art activities that align with Montessori principles, designed to nurture your child's artistic abilities and cognitive development. Introducing these activities at the right time can make all the difference in sparking your toddler’s interest and love for art.

Types of Arts and Crafts Activities

1. Finger Painting

Finger painting is a wonderful sensory activity that allows toddlers to explore colors and textures with their hands. Around the time your baby starts to sit up is the best time to introduce this activity. It helps develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and encourages free expression.

Please make sure you use non-toxic, washable paints for easy cleanup. I really like these Organic Finger Paints. They are great quality and a little goes a long way.

2.Drawing

Around 12 months you can start your art journey with drawing using chunky beeswax crayons. Drawing helps toddlers develop fine motor skills, and hand-eye coordination and allows them to express their creativity freely.

My favorites are these crayons glide easily and are non-toxic, making them perfect for little hands.

3. Watercolors

Observe your child for cues that they might be interested in another art activity. Around 14 months you can introduce watercolors by providing small jars and cleaning materials. This activity encourages toddlers to explore colors and techniques. Watercolor painting helps enhance fine motor skills and teaches children about color mixing and brush control.

Check out my favorite watercolors here. 

4. Scissors and Gluing Activities

Around 18 months, you can introduce scissors with rounded tips, ensuring they cut well. Provide different textures and materials to cut and glue, such as paper, fabric, and natural items like leaves or flowers. These activities help develop precision, hand strength, and fine motor skills, as well as encouraging creativity.

Start with simple cutting tasks, such as cutting along straight lines or cutting out shapes, and then let them glue their cut pieces into creative collages.

5. Paint and Chalk

Painting with non-toxic paints and using chalk on different surfaces (like paper, sidewalks, or chalkboards) are great ways to explore color and texture. These activities are sensory-rich and help develop fine motor skills and artistic expression.

6. Clay, Dough, and Kinetic Sand

At 24 months it’s safe to introduce tools to play with clay, dough, and kinetic sand. This activity helps foster sensory exploration and creativity. The materials can be molded, shaped, and cut, helping to develop hand strength, dexterity, and imaginative play.

Click here to see a non-toxic play dough option.

7. Sewing Activities

Around 2.5 years, you can introduce simple sewing activities. Start with large plastic needles and embroidery hoops with burlap. Sewing improves fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and concentration. At 13 months I started my daughter with a threading set and when she is closer to 24 months I plan to introduce her to a sewing activity like this one.

8. Visits to the Museum

At any age, you can Take your toddler to art museums. Museums provide exposure to different art forms and stimulate curiosity and appreciation for art. Discuss what you see, encouraging your child to express their thoughts and observations. When they are old enough to sketch you can bring a sketchbook for them to doddle and sketch their favorite art pieces.

General Tips and Advice Based on Montessori Principles

Try Not to Be Prescriptive

Allow your child to explore and create freely without strict guidelines. This approach encourages independence and creativity. Instead of telling them what to do, provide the materials and let them decide how to use them.

Give Feedback Instead of Saying It’s Good

Offer specific feedback rather than general praise. For example, say, "I see you used a lot of blue in your painting," instead of "Good job." This helps children focus on their processes and decisions rather than seeking approval.

Use Quality Materials

Provide high-quality, non-toxic materials. Quality materials enhance the sensory experience and show children that their work is valued. Durable materials also last longer and perform better, making the artistic process more enjoyable.

Show by Example

Demonstrate how to use tools and materials properly. Children learn by watching and imitating, so show them how to hold a crayon, use scissors safely, or mix watercolors. Then, step back and let them practice independently.

Toddler art activities inspired by Montessori are designed to nurture creativity, independence, and cognitive development. By focusing on the process rather than the product, children learn to appreciate their own efforts and discoveries. Incorporating these activities into your child's routine will provide endless opportunities for exploration and growth.

*All of the linked products are independently selected and curated by me. If you love and buy something, I may earn a commission.