Fingerpainting is a staple of childhood. It provides kids with opportunities to engage their senses while simultaneously promoting creativity. And while there are store bought options out there, I’ve come to find there is nothing quite like homemade. Which is why, today, I am sharing in how we make our favorite dye-free edible fingerpaint.
When this little guy was about 9 months old, I decided it may be fun to start giving fingerpainting a whirl. Because I knew he would most likely be putting his fingers in his mouth, that eliminated traditional finger paint options from my realm of possibilities almost immediately.
Supplies:
The base recipe for this edible fingerpaint could not be simpler. Are you ready? Here is the supply list:
Yogurt
Real Food, Powders or Spices (for color)
That’s it!
We’ll chat color in just a moment, but first, let’s chat yogurt.
High quality yogurt provides both calcium and protein and has been shown to potentially enhance healthy gut bacteria. All things that growing little ones can benefit from. All things that make it a perfect medium for both painting and snacking!
Don’t do dairy? There are plenty of alternatives to traditional yogurt out there. We love coconut milk yogurt, but you could also give almond, cashew oatmilk or others a whirl.
Whether you are going the traditional route or dairy free, I would encourage you to select an yogurt option that is void of any added sugar.
Why?
Because introducing sugar, in particular, before the age of two has been shown to potentially impact kid’s taste preferences. Not to mention, too much sugar can have a negative impact on their overall health. So while they are still in these formative taste-bud “budding” years, most pediatricians would agree, it’s just best to avoid it if you can.
Color Options:
When it comes to natural coloring options, there are a multitude of options.
My absolute favorite for vibrant coloring is to use superfood powders like those from Unicorn Superfoods or Suncore Foods. Not only are these powders made with nutrient dense ingredients like pitaya, spirulina, beets and more, but they couldn’t be easier to use. Just snag a small spoonful and mix them in.
The only downside to these powders is they can be a little pricey and you might not have them readily available in your kitchen. So that’s when you may find these other real foods and spices handy:
Pink: Beet powder
Blue: Blue Spirulina
Green: Spinach (blend it right into your yogurt)
Parsley Powder
Purple: Blueberry Food Coloring
Black Goji Berry Powder
Orange: Carrot Powder
Paprika
Whatever color combo you choose, one thing I would encourage you to do, is include your child in the process. For toddlers and older children, have them add and mix in the ingredients. Ask them to predict what color it will make, etc. For babies, let them observe and even sample some of the mix in’s as you go. Making dye-free, edible fingerpaint can be an engaging learning experience for kids from start to finish!
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