Finger painting can be a messy experience, which is probably why I have not introduced it to my daughter yet. I've been afraid that she might stain the carpet or the couches... But with it being so nice outside lately, I've been thinking about letting her go to town out there. That way she can't ruin anything inside!

Better yet, I came across a simple recipe for homemade washable finger paints. It's really simple! Here's what you do:

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons sugar
1/3 cup cornstarch
2 cups cold water
1/4 cup liquid dishwashing soap
Food coloring or tempera paints

Directions: Mix sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan, and slowly add the cold water. Cook over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until you have a clear, smooth gel. Cool and then stir in dish soap. Separate into smaller portions and stir in food coloring or tempera paints to create colors.

Since this is easy to wash off, I'll be introducing this to my daughter in the near future. After all, sometimes you have to let kids be kids, and that can include making a mess! - Trisha