How to Make Natural and Non-Toxic Sidewalk Paint

Outdoor activities are a great way to keep children occupied during a long summer vacation. They also provide a way for parents to keep their sanity during long stints of caring for energetic children. However, outdoor equipment and toys can be expensive and children often quickly grow bored with conventional outdoor activities.

I developed the following recipe for non-toxic, temporary sidewalk paint when I ran out of ways to occupy my bored children outside. The paint is easy to make, non-toxic and calls for inexpensive ingredients you may already have on hand. The paint is also temporary; you can easily wash the sidewalk paint off with a garden hose or just let it stay put until the next heavy rain which will also remove it.

You will need the following containers and utensils to make the sidewalk paint: large mixing bowl that will hold at least four cups of liquid; large wooden or metal spoon; (6) 4 oz. jars or bowls with lids; measuring cup

You will also need the following ingredients to prepare the sidewalk paint: 1 1/2 cups water; 1 1/2 cups cornstarch; red, yellow, and blue food coloring, paintbrushes and sponges.

Begin preparing the paint by measuring 1 1/2 cups of cornstarch into the large mixing bowl.

Next measure the 1 1/2 cups of cornstarch and stir the mixture taking care to break up any clumps that may form. Stir until it has a uniform and smooth consistency; this process generally takes a minute or two. You can blend the paint in a blender or mixer to save time if you wish.

Once the cornstarch and water are thoroughly mixed the sidewalk paint is ready to color. Pour the paint into the six separate jars or bowls.

To make red, yellow or blue sidewalk paint add 12 drops of the appropriate food colorant into one of the bowls and stir. If the color is not as bright as you desire feel free to add another 6 to 8 drops of colorant and stir until the paint meets your preference.

For orange, green or purple sidewalk paint first stir the proper food colorants in a separate container until it is the shade you wish. Then repeat the steps above; this will ensure uniform color.

After coloring the sidewalk paint it is ready to use. Cut sponges into shapes such as triangles and squares. Allow your children to use these and conventional paint brushes to paint the sidewalk to their hearts content.

The sidewalk paint will wash easily off of skin and out of clothes for quick clean-up when your children are done playing.

When not in use keep lids on the paint containers and store them in the refrigerator. I have successfully stored the paint in my refrigerator for 1 week.