Self-portraits are a wonderful activity for preschoolers.

They allow children to explore who they are, build self-awareness, and practice important fine motor and creative skills.

By creating self-portraits in different ways, children learn to see themselves as unique individuals while expressing their personalities.

Encourage Self-Portraits for Preschoolers

Self-portrait activities support social-emotional development by helping children recognize and celebrate their own features. They also develop observation skills, encourage creativity, and provide opportunities for conversation about identity and feelings.

Using Playdough Mats

One fun way to create self-portraits is with playdough mats. With a simple face outline, children can use playdough to add eyes, noses, mouths, hair, and even accessories. This activity is hands-on, strengthens fine motor skills, and lets children make and change their portraits over and over again.

Self Portrait Mat Template Here

Other Creative Ways to Explore Self-Portraits

There are many ways to invite preschoolers to create self-portraits beyond drawing:

• Drawing or Painting – Provide mirrors so children can look closely at their features and add details to their artwork.
• Collage Art – Use magazines, colored paper, yarn, and buttons for children to build portraits with textures.
• Loose Parts Play – Offer materials like beads, shells, or natural items for children to arrange into face shapes.
• Digital Tools – Older preschoolers may enjoy simple apps or software that let them build faces on a screen.

Whether using playdough mats, paint, or collage, these activities combine creativity, self-expression, and learning. Displaying children’s portraits in the classroom can build confidence and celebrate our similarities and differences.