Block Crayoning on the Summer Solstice

June 21st, 2010

Block Crayoning on the Summer Solstice

Today was officially the first day of summer and although the good weather has been upon us now for several weeks, you could definitely feel the festive energy emanating from the neighborhood.

Among many things, I have been working on our rhythm. Part of that is assigning certain days for certain creative projects. I haven’t actually had an official crayoning session with Sophie – so I decided to give it a try on Mondays. Bonus is, today we got to do it outside!

We bought this bench at the end of the season last year at Canadian Tire. It was marked down to a steal of a deal – we got it for approx. $20! Here is the best part about it…

It easily converts into a picnic table!

I brought out the block crayons and paper. I chose a cover stock paper since it is thicker – really durable, and removed the corners. If you have never used or heard of block crayons – I recommend you give them a try. They are made of beeswax which gives a wonderful sensory experience for your child as they warm up in their hands. Not only do they smell good, but the shape makes it easier for young children to hold onto. Which also means they last a long time, so don’t let the price scare you.

Since children learn from mimicry, I sat down beside Sophie to do my own picture. Remember she is only two and a half, so I wanted to keep my movements simple – just back and forth – no actual shapes. The goal was for her to get a feel for the crayons as well as experience colour. Children of this age do not have the brain development to make shapes.

Sophie’s first creation.

My first “picture”. I must admit I was really looking forward to crayoning as well. There is just something so freeing to allow the colour to develop on the page with no real direction – just as the heart desires. If you were ever firmly encouraged to only colour “in the lines” as a child, this process can be very freeing/healing. Looking at it, I like how the yellow stands out more than the rest of the colours. It’s like good energy shining through.

We filled three pages each this morning, and then it was time for snack followed by flower picking/swinging at the park time.

I plan to keep these drawings in a scrapbook – and I will hold onto my own as well. You never know what emotions may unfold as time goes on. A simple act can mean so much. I know for me – I found the crayoning very relaxing.