Sometimes an activity is just so beautiful and natural I can’t take it. Mirror nature painting outside is one of those. The reflection of the sky or in our case, our lemon tree, in the mirrors was just gorgeous. This invitation to play for toddlers and young children is a great, open ended art activity. Here’s how we did it.
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I had some kid made paints left over from art class in the morning, which I set out on a lazy susan. We got ours at Ikea. You can order this similar one 
Some of the kids just painted right on the mirrors and didn’t bother with the bits of nature on the table. Other kids selected different things from the shell and took their time painting all the different shapes and textures.
I love seeing which kids gravitate towards what activities. This little cutie kept making her way back to the play house for more nature painting. I don’t know what she liked most, mixing the paint or painting the mirrors but she was very busy.
Can you find me in this pic?
This was a great play group activity and something I will definitely bring out again. For more Reggio inspired activities check out our shadow boxes and butterfly art. Happy Summer!
super cool!! i love the way the trees reflect off of the mirrors. truly nature inspired…and makes me (once again) want to be with you in california!! xx bar
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Dear Meri, My name is Sandra Duncan and I am the co-author of a new book called Landscapes of Young Children’s Spaces: Connecting Children, Community, and Culture. I love the way this activity reflects children’s community and was wondering if I could use your story in the book? Could we talk? 219-743-2923. I am also the co-author of Inspiring Spaces for Young Children.
Hi Sandra. So sorry for the late response. My comments section was broken for the past few weeks. I will be in touch! or feel free to email me at mericherryla@gmail.com Thanks so much!
HI Meri – What paints do you recommend for painting on mirrors. I actually picked up a real mirror from one of my neighbors. I want to try this project for my toddler art class. Thanks!
Hi! I would go with regular tempera paint. It will wash off easily. Fun Chalk Markers would work well too. Have fun!