Potato Printing

What a wonderful activity for young children, and - in my case - what a wonderful way to get rid of potatoes that have gone a bit green! Simply cut the potato in half and cut a simple shape out of each portion; basic geometric shapes like squares and triangles are easiest. I set my girl up with loads of pre-cut (by me) butcher's paper, her craft smock, and a meat tray with a sponge soaked in paint on it, and let her go to town! In future, I think this would be a great way to make cards or wrapping paper (Christmas: maybe some Chrissy tree shapes, or stars?) but at the moment, it's just for the sake of exploration. This is, of course, a messy activity, so make sure you cover surfaces with an old sheet or newspaper, or do it outside in the lovely spring weather! Protect your child's clothing with a smock or Dad's old T-shirt, and have a bucket of soapy water and a washcloth near to hand for when they're finished. A little tip: it's a good idea for you to be wearing some old clothes too, just in case your child gets a surge of affection and wants a cuddle (as mine did). Also, be sure to have somewhere to hang their works of art; bluetack for sticking it on windows to dry, pegs for hanging them on the clothesline, or a clotheshorse. It may require a bit of work on your part, but your tot will love it!