Looking for a simple, colorful, and engaging sensory activity that supports learning and development? Shaving Cream Marble Art is not only visually stunning but also an excellent hands-on craft that supports sensory exploration—perfect for children receiving ABA therapy, as well as those benefiting from autism behavior support services.
What is Shaving Cream Marble Art?
This art project is as fun as it sounds. Kids get to swirl vibrant paints into a layer of shaving cream, press paper onto it, and peel it away to reveal magical, marbled artwork. The process is just as rewarding as the final result!
How to Make It:
- Spread shaving cream on a tray or shallow pan.
- Drip washable paints or food coloring onto the surface.
- Use a stick or fork to swirl the colors gently.
- Press a piece of cardstock or paper onto the mixture.
- Lift it off and use a scraper or ruler to remove excess shaving cream.
- Let the paper dry and admire your colorful, marbled design!
Why It’s Great for Kids with Autism
Shaving Cream Marble Art isn’t just a fun project—it’s also a powerful tool when incorporated into ABA therapy and other autism support services. Here’s how it can help:
Sensory Exploration
The texture of shaving cream and the swirling motion of the paint create a rich sensory experience. This can be particularly soothing or stimulating (in a positive way) for children on the autism spectrum.
Fine Motor Skill Development
Scooping, swirling, and scraping help build hand strength and improve fine motor coordination—a key focus in many ABA therapy programs.
Encourages Creativity and Self-Expression
Art is a non-verbal way for children to express their feelings, preferences, and individuality. The open-ended nature of this craft supports creative exploration.
Promotes Focus and Engagement
The visual transformation during the marbling process is highly engaging, which can increase a child’s attention span and ability to follow multi-step directions—goals often targeted in ABA services.
It Can Be a Social Activity
With the guidance of a therapist or parent, Shaving Cream Marble Art can be used during group sessions to promote sharing, turn-taking, and communication—key goals in autism behavior support.
Tips for Using This Craft in ABA Therapy Sessions
- Pair with a visual schedule to outline steps of the activity.
- Use it as a reinforcer or reward for completing tasks.
- Embed language-building opportunities by labeling colors, describing actions, or making requests (“I want blue”).
- Modify the sensory input (e.g., use gloves or different textures) based on the child’s sensory preferences.
Whether you’re a parent, therapist, or teacher working with children on the autism spectrum, Shaving Cream Marble Art is a colorful way to support learning, sensory regulation, and creativity. It’s an easy and low-cost craft that blends fun with function, making it a valuable tool for anyone involved in ABA therapy or providing autism behavior support.
If you’re looking for more sensory craft ideas, checkout our blogs like Alphabet Sensory Bin, Watercolor Salt Art, and Glow-in-the-Dark Jellyfish.
