WORKING with wriggly kids

Tips for Face Painting Wiggly Kids: How to Handle Squirmy Little Clients

Face painting is an exciting and creative experience for children, but for many, sitting still long enough for a design to take shape can be a challenge. Whether they're excited, anxious, or simply having too much fun to sit still, it can be tough to get the job done. While you can’t always stop a child from moving, there are some strategies that can make your job easier and improve the experience for both you and your little client. Here are some tips that I use, plus a few additional ideas to help you succeed when painting wriggly kids:

1. Give Them a Warning

One simple and effective strategy is giving the child a heads-up before you start. I often say things like, "Are you ready? Hold still," which sets the expectation. If I know they might flinch or jump when the brush touches their skin, I also touch the area first with my finger. This helps reduce the initial shock and can ease some of the nervousness.

2. Comfortable Seating

If possible, make sure the child is sitting in a comfortable chair where they can lean back and even rest their head. Some children find it calming to rest their head in your hand while you work. By supporting them in a relaxed position, you help prevent sudden movements that can disrupt your work.

3. Give Them Something to Hold

Distraction can work wonders when it comes to wiggly children. I recommend offering something to hold that doesn’t require them to look at it. For example, I use a small squeeze bath toy – a grey rhino, to be exact. It’s not overly exciting for them to look at, but it gives their hands something to focus on, keeping them from fidgeting with their face or moving around.

4. Speed and Confidence

Speed doesn’t mean rushing through the design, but moving with confidence and efficiency helps. The quicker and more sure of yourself you are with each brushstroke, the easier it is to work around the inevitable twitches and wriggles. Quick, smooth movements reduce the chances of interruption and allow you to complete each section more easily.

5. Count Down for Stillness

Many kids respond well to a deadline, so giving them a countdown can work wonders. Whether it’s counting down from five or just giving them a final 10-second warning to hold still, having a set time frame lets them know when they can start moving again. I often say, “Hold still for 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. Great job, now wriggle!” This helps them know exactly when they can let loose and get wiggly again.

6. Model Face Movements

Sometimes kids don’t realize how much their faces move when they’re excited. I like to demonstrate how their eyebrows move or how they scrunch their eyes by doing it myself and letting them watch. This can help them understand the importance of keeping still and not making those movements while you're painting.

7. Positive Reinforcement

Don’t forget to praise them for being still when they do cooperate. Positive reinforcement can make them feel good about the experience, and they may be more likely to stay still next time. Compliment them on how well they're doing, even if it's just for a few seconds of stillness.

Conclusion

Ultimately, wriggling kids are a part of the face painting experience, but with a little patience and a few tricks, you can make the process smoother for both of you. Give them the right cues, use distractions, and stay confident in your work. Most importantly, try to make it fun and enjoyable—because that’s what keeps kids excited for their painted masterpiece!