“What color is your heart today?” This question is the perfect starting point for a conversation about the current feelings a child is experiencing. Teaching them a vocabulary appropriate for the feelings they are a part o and helping them identify these will also promote a healthy communication of emotions. Using art to be able to communicate their thoughts and feelings to adults gives us a starting off point for learning, problem solving and supporting them.

Supplies Needed

• Shaving cream
• Poster board
• Scissors
• Washable paint
• Paintbrushes

Directions

1. Put shaving cream in small bowls with a few drops of paint
2. Cut out a large heart out of posterboard
3. Allow children to paint their feelings on the heart
4. Let dry

As you work on this craft, listen to The Paint Box

Conversation starters

• What scares you?
• How are you feeling today?
• Are you happy/angry/upset about something?