Nature Print Cards

What you need

• leaves or flat flowers
• washable paint
• paper
• paintbrush

How to do it

1. 1Collect leaves of different shapes and sizes and say, 'We're going to make leaf prints that look like ghosts.' The more variety, the more interesting the prints.
2. 2Brush a thin, even layer of paint on the veined underside of each leaf.
3. 3Press the painted side onto paper. Hold five seconds. Peel back slowly from one corner.
4. 4Try different colours on the same leaf. Watch the vein structure appear like a ghost.

Variations

• Korb-Tür: If they're hesitant about the brush or paint, let them press a pre-painted leaf while you handle the brush work. The reveal is what matters — seeing the print appear is engaging on its own.
• Ausstieg: Make a final press together: 'Let's make one more really good one with your favourite leaf, and then we'll let them dry.' Set the finished prints on a rack to dry, marking the natural close.

What your child develops

• Fine motor — controlled brush application and careful pressing
• Observation — noticing that leaves have intricate vein structures
• Cause and effect — exactly how you press determines exactly what prints

Safety notes

• Use washable paint.