It’s July, and the mercury is starting to climb. I love my kids to play outside and soak up summer fun as much as possible. But when it’s too hot, staying outdoors for hours isn’t possible (or, really, safe).

That’s when summer art projects become indispensable. Because my kids are young and have relatively short attention spans, I like projects that are come together quickly, are generally self directed (they can do them without me hovering over their shoulders) and are easy to clean up. This microwaveable puffy paint recipe fits the bill. Happy painting!

Microwavable Puff Paint

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon flour

1 tablespoon salt

1 teaspoon baking powder

2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon water

Food coloring, a few drops per batch

Mix ingredients together to form a paste. Paint on cardstock using q-tips or foam brushes. To set, microwave for 20 seconds. If paint still isn’t dry, microwave an additional 10 seconds. Viola!

Tips: Have kids wear aprons so the food coloring doesn’t dye their clothes. If you are preparing more than one color, wait to summon your helpers until the last color. That way they aren’t sitting around waiting “patiently” for you to be done.