As parents, we're always on the lookout for creative ways to keep our little ones entertained while fostering their imagination. One classic outdoor activity that never fails is sidewalk chalk. But who says chalk art has to be limited to sidewalks? There are lots of fun and unexpected ways to use sidewalk chalk! Take some inspiration from this list, or simply ask your in-house creative team (aka: your tiny human) what they think you should color next.

1.Chalk a Tree Trunk
Turn your backyard into an enchanted forest by decorating tree trunks with chalk. Encourage your little ones to transform the bark into a fairy house, a robot, or a friendly monster. Choose trees with smooth bark for the best results, and always check if it's okay to chalk trees in public areas.

2. Chalk a Welcome Home Message
Surprise Mom or Dad with a colorful greeting when they return from work. Help your kids design a vibrant "Welcome Home!" message on the driveway or sidewalk leading to your front door. It's a heartwarming way to show appreciation and brighten up a working parent’s day. For an extra special touch, add handprints or drawings of the whole family.

3. Chalk Your House Stairs
Turn your porch or other outdoor stairs into a work of art by chalking each step. Create a rainbow effect, write inspiring quotes, or draw a different picture on each riser. This unexpected canvas will bring a pop of color to your home and put a spring in everyone's step.

4. Chalk a Dog House, Path, or Stage Scenery
Give your furry friend a fun new "bed" by chalking an elaborate design on the patio or deck where they like to lounge. Draw a plush pillow, a royal throne, or even a rocket ship – the sky's the limit! Even if your pup doesn’t appreciate the artistic value, it'll make for some adorable photos and giggles for the whole family.

5. Chalk at Your Local Farmers Market
Turn your weekly shopping trip into an artistic adventure. Bring some chalk along to the farmers market and let your little artists create colorful masterpieces while you browse. Draw fruits and vegetables next to the corresponding stalls, leave cheerful messages for other shoppers, or let your kids create their own "market stand" on the ground. Just be sure to ask for permission from market organizers first, and don’t forget to bring extra chalk to share!

6. Spread Kindness with Chalk
Here's a special challenge to share some joy with your art: create public kindness messages with your kids using sidewalk chalk. Find a suitable public space (with permission, of course) and brainstorm uplifting phrases or drawings that will brighten someone's day. 

Here are some ideas for your masterpieces:
- Dream big today
- Don't forget, you are amazing
- A hopscotch board with the words “Stop and Play!”
- If you look at what you have in life, you'll always have more
-Smile at the next person you pass on this sidewalk

Remember, the goal is to spread positivity and make others feel good. It's also a wonderful opportunity to discuss empathy and the impact of kind words with your children.

Bonus: Get Rewarded for Your Kindness
October 1-15, 2024

If you and your kids create a public kindness message using sidewalk chalk, we want to turn your artwork into a freebie. Simply snap a picture of your creation and email it to kelly@urbaninfant.com along with your address. We'll reward your family's creativity and kindness with a free set of Urban Infant Chunky Chalk. It's our way of saying thank you for making the world a little brighter!