Enhancing creativity and sensory development with eco-conscious art materials in early childhood settings

Art activities are essential in early childhood education, fostering creativity, hand–eye coordination, and emotional expression. However, commercially available paints often contain hazardous substances such as lead and formaldehyde, posing health risks to children. This study employed a mixed-methods design integrating experimental formulation, expert sensory evaluation, and classroom-based observation to develop a non-toxic, affordable homemade finger paint as a safer alternative. Five starch-based flours—cornstarch, tapioca starch, potato starch, rice flour, and all-purpose flour—were tested under varying water temperatures and ratios to assess their texture, viscosity, and color properties. A panel of five specialists in early childhood education, art therapy, and material science conducted a structured sensory evaluation, and seven children aged 2–6 years from a local kindergarten participated in classroom trials. Data were collected through a Likert-type rating scale, field observations, and teacher reflection logs. Results indicated that tapioca starch provided the most favorable texture and viscosity, while manual kneading and saline addition improved smoothness and odor control. Classroom observations confirmed strong engagement and sensory benefits across age levels. The findings highlight the educational value of eco-conscious art materials in promoting creativity, safety, and environmental responsibility.