One of my favorite things to do is use sidewalk chalk. For some reason, creating art on a large sidewalk canvas never fails to make me happy. Note - I am not an artist; I actually possess little artistic talent. But I still love to use sidewalk chalk.
In an Early Learning environment, sidewalk chalk is a staple; sometimes kids who have no interest in writing or drawing in the classroom will suddenly become Picasso when handed a piece of sidewalk chalk and a large area on which to draw.
I have been exploring different recipes to create sidewalk chalk on my own; with moderate success. But I just stumbled on one that seems to work really well, is easy to make and is cold! When it is 110 degrees outside, icy sidewalk chalk is a no brainer.
You will need equal parts of:
baking soda
corn starch
water
liquid water color or food coloring (note: food coloring may take a few days to fade from sidewalk)
(1 and 1/3 cup of each will yield enough for one ice cube tray of chalk.).
Place all of the ingredients into a bottle with a tight fitting lid and shake well.
Pour mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze over night.
Now you have frozen sidewalk chalk!
If using your chalk during the hot part of the day, please remember the sidewalk can burn - find shade!
Added bonus: after you have made your chalk designs with your homemade chalk; grab a spray bottle and fill it with vinegar. Spray on your designs, and watch them fizz!
