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In this game, children pretend their bodies are paintbrushes and the air is their canvas, helping build physical confidence, decision-making and self-expression.
This playful activity is perfect for EYFS and Key Stage 1 drama sessions and encourages joyful and imaginative movement.
1. Set the dilemma
Tell the children you're planning to do a big painting...but oh no!
You've forgotten all the paints, paper and brushes.
(Optional: You can send them to the "shop" to get materials, but the shopkeeper (a teacher) has sold out of everything!)
2. Offer the solution
Say to the group: "But wait! We do have our bodies, our imaginations and the air around us. So let's paint that way!"
3. Mix the paints
Ask the children to imagine a big paint pot in front of them.
Let them suggest colours to pour in, swirling and stirring the imaginary mix with exaggerated movements.
4. Create your picture
Ask each child:
Demonstrate a painting, for example, "I'm going to paint a rainbow with my elbows!"
5. Paint together
Let them move and 'paint' in the air using their chosen body part. Encourage big, expressive movement.
6. Gallery time
When their paintings are finished, ask them to 'hang them on the wall' (pointing to an imaginary gallery space).
Walk around admiring the air-art together: "Wow! What a masterpiece!"
Children adore this game. It gives them permission to be messy, expressive, and totally original, without needing a drop of real paint! It's perfect for nurturing creativity through imaginative play.
Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.