Try this fantastically simple kid’s art activity Paint the Toys. This “Busy Toddler” classic is a two for one activity: first, kids paint the toys, then they wash them back to normal. It’s one of the best activity ideas when you need to keep kids occupied.
Paint the Toys: A Kids Art Activity You’ll Love
Need an easy, no-fuss activity to brighten your day? Let the kids paint the toys. Trust me on this one—it’s genius.
You’re going to have to take a leap of faith here, but I promise: painting the toys is a game-changer. This simple activity is perfect for kids of all ages and guaranteed to keep them busy and engaged.
Grab some washable paint, round up a few plastic toys, and let the creativity flow. It’s an effortless way to turn an ordinary day into something magical.
RELATED: Looking for more easy indoor activities? Check out my list full of them – perfect for inside days.
Why Should Kids Paint the Toys?
Because it’s awesome. That’s why.
Paint the toys isn’t just an art project; it’s a full sensory experience. Kids get to explore textures, colors, and shapes while transforming their toys into mini works of art. It’s like giving their favorite figures a fun, temporary makeover.
And don’t worry – this makeover rinses right off. Washable paint on plastic toys is the secret sauce here, making clean-up a breeze.
RELATED: Need an activities list for your fridge? Worried you’ll run out of ideas for each day? I’ve got you with this FREE PDF.
Looking for more structure each day?
Check out Playing Preschool: Busy Toddler’s 190-day at-home activities program
Won’t Paint Ruin the Toys?
Not at all! Here’s the trick:
- Use washable paint. It’s non-toxic, kid-friendly, and easy to clean.
- Choose the right toys. Look for all-plastic toys without stickers, fabric, or wooden parts.
These simple guidelines keep the activity stress-free and fun. Once the painting session wraps up, the toys get a quick rinse, and they’re good as new.
What’s So Great About Painting Toys?
Let’s talk about what makes this activity so amazing. First, it’s captivating. My kids (ages 6.5, 5, and 3) were completely immersed for 40 minutes straight.
FORTY MINUTES.
When you’re in the thick of it at home, 40 minutes of quiet, focused play can feel like a mini vacation. Plus, painting the toys encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and independent thinking – so much goodness and no specialty supplies or any complicated set-up.
“Won’t My Kids Want to Paint Everything After This?”
Nope. Kids are amazing at understanding context and boundaries. Think about it: they know it’s okay to pour water from a bath cup but not at the dinner table. Same idea here.
Set clear expectations:
- Paint the toys happens with me.
- We use washable paint and specific toys.
Your kids will get it. This activity isn’t a free pass to paint the walls – it’s a special moment they’ll love and respect.
RELATED: Looking for tips on how to paint with kids? Check out this blog post on painting with kids.
Materials You’ll Need:
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This list might look long, but I promise it’s the “standards.” I have 15 basic supplies that I use over and over again – these come from that list.
The Best Part: Clean-Up Is a Bonus Activity!
Once the kids finish painting, it’s time for part two: the bath.
Take those paint-covered kids and toys straight to the tub. They’ll have a blast washing everything off while you sit back and enjoy the rare moment of dual-purpose parenting brilliance. Bath time = clean toys and happy kids. Win-win.
Now that is the kind of activity I need in my life right now to help things move along over here.
RELATED: Check out my entire page of quick and easy activities for even more ideas.
Quick and Easy Fun for Any Day
Art activities don’t need to be complicated or intimidating, and this one is proof. Paint the toys is simple, engaging, and always a hit in our house.
So, the next time your day needs a little spark, grab some paint and let the kids transform their toys into something spectacular. Trust me, you’ll be so glad you did.
Susie Allison, M. Ed
Owner, Creator
Susie Allison is the creator of Busy Toddler and has more than 2.3 million followers on Instagram. A former teacher and early childhood education advocate, Susie’s parenting book “Busy Toddler’s Guide to Actual Parenting” is available on Amazon.
