How to make a DIY blackboard for your child

Blackboards or chalkboards are a great tool for learning, and they are perfect for children who are visual and kinesthetic learners.

A blackboard is a great way to help your child learn the alphabet, numbers, and even some basic math concepts. However, not everyone can afford to buy a brand-new blackboard, and sometimes the ones sold in stores can be too small or too big.

Fortunately, you can make your own blackboard for your child at home with just a few simple materials.

Items you will need

• A piece of wood or plywood (ideally 24 x 36 inches)
• Sandpaper
• Blackboard paint
• Paintbrush
• Painter’s tape
• Chalk

How to make it

1. Choose the wood: First, choose a piece of wood or plywood that is large enough to be used as a blackboard. You can buy a pre-cut piece of wood from a hardware store, or you can use a piece of wood that you have lying around. Ideally, you should choose a piece of wood that is about 24 x 36 inches in size.
2. Sand the wood: Once you have your wood, you need to sand it down. Use sandpaper to remove any rough edges or splinters. This will help your blackboard paint adhere better to the wood.
3. Apply painter’s tape: Next, apply painter’s tape to the edges of your wood to create a border. This will help keep your blackboard paint from spilling over onto the edges of your wood.
4. Apply blackboard paint: Now it’s time to apply your blackboard paint. Help your child use a paintbrush to apply the paint in a thin layer. You can apply more than one coat if necessary, but make sure that each coat is completely dry before applying the next one. Also, make sure that you follow the instructions on your blackboard paint to ensure that it is applied correctly.
5. Allow it to dry: After you have applied your blackboard paint, allow it to dry completely. This may take a few hours or overnight depending on the humidity and temperature of the area. Once it’s dry, you can remove the painter’s tape from the edges of your wood.
6. Condition your blackboard: Before your child starts using their blackboard, you need to condition it. This involves rubbing the surface of your blackboard with chalk and then wiping it off with a dry cloth. This will help prevent ghosting or shadowing when your child uses it.

Top tips

• Encourage your child to clean their blackboard regularly with a damp cloth to keep it looking new.
• Let your child use different coloured chalk to keep things interesting.