Poster Paints, Acrylics, and Watercolours: A Mum’s Guide to Safe, Creative, and Washable Art at Home

Why Painting With Kids Is Powerful

Painting isn’t just play it’s emotional expression, creativity, sensory learning, and bonding.

When you give your child a brush, you’re not just entertaining them you’re nurturing their focus, coordination, and imagination.

And as a mum, having the right tools (and knowing what washes off!) matters.

This guide will help you confidently explore poster paints, watercolours, acrylics, safe setups, and even how to make your own toddler-safe paints.

What Are Poster Colours and Why Do They Work for Kids?

Poster colours are water-based paints designed to be bold, thick, and matte. They dry quickly, cover well, and are ideal for younger children because:

• They’re easy to clean

• They can be used without special surfaces

• They’re budget-friendly and usually non-toxic

They’re called “poster” paints because they were once used in making big, vibrant posters for school or events. But now, they’re a staple in homeschooling, toddler art, and even therapy.

How to Use Poster Colours With Children

Poster paints are simple but setting up for success makes a big difference.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Choose the right paper

Use thick paper or card. Thin paper wrinkles easily with water.

2. Set up a washable station

Use old newspaper, waterproof mats, or plastic table covers. Have a cup of clean water, tissues, and aprons ready.

3. Scoop out small amounts

Pour a little paint onto a palette or small containers. Too much can dry out or get wasted.

4. Let your child explore

They can use brushes, fingers, cotton balls, leaves, or even kitchen tools.

5. Teach layering

Encourage them to let one colour dry before painting over it. It prevents smudging and teaches patience.

Creative Poster Paint Ideas for Home Learning

• Nature Prints

Paint leaves and press onto paper. Label the leaf types for a nature lesson.

• Storybook Scenes

After reading, paint a favourite moment from the story.

• Handprint Animals

Turn handprints into fish, lions, or birds with a few brush strokes.

• Colour Mixing Chart

Mix red + yellow, blue + red, and more to explore how colours are made.

• Emotion Faces

Paint faces for happy, sad, tired, and excited. Helps toddlers name their feelings.

Want to go deeper? You can even create a weekly painting theme—space, jungle, sea, family, seasons—and let your child explore their thoughts through art.

Poster vs Acrylic vs Watercolour: What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to get confused. All three are used with brushes and water—but they’re not the same.

Here’s a breakdown:

1. Poster Paint

• Water-based, dries matte

• Bright and thick

• Easy to clean

• Best on paper or cardboard

• Not waterproof once dry

Perfect for: toddlers, crafts, quick projects

2. Acrylic Paint

• Plastic-based, dries waterproof

• Strong colour and durable

• Can paint on canvas, fabric, glass, or wood

• Hard to wash off once dry

Perfect for: serious art, older children, wall art or keepsakes

3. Watercolour Paint

• Light, transparent layers

• Needs more water

• Great for gentle brush techniques

• Easy to wash off

Perfect for: soft pictures, gentle blending, older kids

Which One Washes Off Easily?

Let’s get real mums want fun, not mess stress. Here’s the truth:

Poster Paint:

• Yes, it washes off easily

• Skin, clothes, and surfaces clean up with water and soap

• Not waterproof, so if water spills, it may smudge

Watercolour:

• Very washable

• Great for toddlers

• Doesn’t stain clothes or skin

Acrylic:

• Harder to clean

• Wash hands and brushes immediately

• If it dries on clothes or skin, it’s hard to remove

• May need alcohol or paint remover

If your child is under 5, stick with poster or watercolour for now.

Safe Painting Tips for Toddlers and Young Children

Here’s how to make painting time safe, calm, and joyful:

• Use washable, non-toxic paint

Always check the label. Avoid strong-smelling or solvent-based paints.

• Dress for mess

Aprons, old clothes, and no socks if you’re painting on the floor.

• Use child-safe tools

Big soft brushes, sponges, or cotton buds are easy to grip.

• Create a paint zone

Lay down plastic, use trays, and keep everything nearby.

• Keep wipes and a damp cloth ready

Clean hands before they touch the wall!

• Don’t leave them unattended

Paint might go in mouths or eyes. Stay close.

• Work on flat, low surfaces

Small tables or floor mats are great for toddlers.

This makes art time safe but still allows them to explore freely.

DIY Washable Paint Recipe (Safe for Toddlers)

Want peace of mind with ingredients you trust? Try this:

Ingredients:

• ½ cup plain flour

• ½ cup water

• Food colouring or natural colour (beetroot, turmeric, spirulina)

• Optional: 1 tsp salt (helps preserve for a few days)

Method:

1. Mix flour and water in a bowl until smooth

2. Divide into small containers

3. Add food colouring or natural colour to each

4. Stir well and paint!

You can store this in the fridge for 2–3 days.

Use it with fingers, sponges, or brushes. It’s safe if it accidentally gets in the mouth (though not tasty!).

Bonus: Natural Colouring Ideas

• Beetroot juice = red

• Turmeric = yellow

• Spinach or spirulina = green

• Cocoa powder = brown

This turns painting into a mini science and food lesson too!

Make Art a Regular Part of Your Routine

You don’t need fancy supplies or formal art skills.

Your toddler doesn’t need perfect lines.

All they need is freedom to create, space to express, and your gentle presence.

Use poster paint for bold fun. Try watercolours for calm creativity. Avoid acrylic unless you’re ready for mess.

And when in doubt make your own with flour and food colouring.

Art at home builds memories, confidence, and connection.

So next time your child reaches for a brush, say yes. Let them paint. Let them get messy. Let them grow.

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