Looking for a hands-on, sensory-rich craft that also builds early literacy skills? This Salt Painting Umbrella Craft is the perfect activity for preschoolers and kindergarteners learning about the letter U and the word umbrella.
Not only is it creative and fun, but it also sneaks in letter recognition, fine motor practice, and color exploration!
What You’ll Need:
- White cardstock or heavy paper
- Pencil
- Glue (white school glue)
- Table salt
- Watercolor paints or liquid food coloring
- Paintbrush or dropper
- Cup of water and paper towel for cleanup
How to Make a Salt Painting Umbrella:
Step 1: Draw the Umbrella
Draw a large umbrella shape on your paper. You can sketch it freehand, or print out a simple outline for your child to trace.
Tip: Include a big letter “U” in the corner for letter recognition!
Step 2: Trace with Glue
Carefully trace over the lines of the umbrella with white glue. Make sure the lines are thick enough for salt to stick.
Step 3: Sprinkle the Salt
Sprinkle salt generously over the glue lines, just like you’d do with glitter. Shake off the extra and let it sit for a minute.
Step 4: Add Color
Dip a paintbrush or dropper into watercolor paint or food coloring diluted with water. Gently touch the color to the salted glue lines and watch the magic happen—the color spreads like fireworks!
Step 5: Let It Dry
Set the painting aside to dry completely. Once dry, you’ll have a raised, sparkly, and colorful umbrella!
Learning Focus:
- Letter U recognition: Talk about how “umbrella” starts with U. Practice the “uh” sound.
- Vocabulary building: Introduce words like rainy, handle, canopy, and drizzle.
- Fine motor skills: Squeezing glue bottles and using droppers strengthens hand muscles.
- Science observation: Watch how salt absorbs and spreads the paint—like magic!
Fun Extensions:
Perfect for:
- Letter of the week: U
- Weather-themed units
- Rainy day crafts
- Homeschool or preschool centers
