This paint is “Edible” finger paint. I don’t mean this should be a substitute for breakfast, lunch or dinner. I’m just saying if by chance a little gets into your kid’s mouth, it’s okay. Especially if you have a little one running around that doesn’t yet understand the concept, “Oh no, don’t eat that!”

I’ve had my fair share of those instances, one recently being a mouthful of cat food.

Stuff happens. Cat food in your kid’s mouth, happens.

This is a great go-to activity that requires nothing fancy in the kitchen. And I’m pretty sure you have all the ingredients right in your cupboards.

The real reason I made this, besides it being super fun to play with, is it’s a great activity for toddler’s sensory development and imagination. That’s what really sold me.

After cooking up the cornstarch it thickens to an almost pudding-like consistency. Spoon it into little bowls and add your favorite food coloring. Just remember a little food coloring goes a long way, especially if you’re using gel food coloring. My green paint almost looked black it was so dark.

Lesson learned.

This activity is best outside. Nothing a little hosing off won’t fix!

DIY Edible Finger Paint Recipe – There are a couple variations on this recipe and each work just as well. One variation using vanilla yogurt with food coloring, and  the second is made with a vanilla pudding and food coloring.  This version is my favorite though.

1/2 cup cornstarch

3 tablespoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cups water

Pour all ingredients into a sauce pan and cook on a medium-low heat, while stirring, for 10 minutes. Mixture will thicken up to a pudding-like consistency when done. Spoon into little bowls (about 5 separate bowls) and add a small amount of different food colorings to each bowl.

If paint is too thick, stir in a small amount of hot water to thin it out.

Recipe adapted from Hellobee