WK01 Primary Colors + Blending

Objective To introduce watercolor and the concept of primary colors. Children learn through exploration how red, yellow, and blue are the building blocks of all other colors.

InstructionsPrepare individual trays with paints, brush, and water cup. Arrange seats in quiet, naturally well-lit space. No examples should be shown, trust in the child’s process.

Invite the child to begin by observing the three colors on their tray. Demonstrate one clean brushstroke of red, then yellow, then blue.

Offer: “Would you like to try making a stroke with each color?”

Encourage mixing red + yellow (to discover orange), yellow + blue (green), red + blue (purple) directly on the paper.

Suggest building a loose “wheel” shape if the child is ready for structure.


Supplies
  1. watercolor palettes (only: red, yellow, blue)
  2. small round watercolor brushes
  3. water cups
  4. 12x12 watercolor paper 
  5. paper towel
  6. aprons (recommended but optional)
  7. trays to organize each student’s setup
Prompts
“Can you find a way to make a new color?”

“What do you notice when these two colors meet?”

“Does this red feel warm or cool?”

“Would you like to keep exploring or try something new with mixing colors?”