Choose paints that are washable and make sure the children have smocks so paint does not get on their clothing. Paint with sponges, paintbrushes or even fingers. Take the children outside and ask them to paint something they see in nature. You can paint almost anything: paper plates, construction paper, even coffee filters. Create seasonal decorations by giving the children paint in fall colors. Ask them to cover a large sheet of paper in the colors. Once the paint has dried, cut out the shapes of leaves. Paint paper plates green and red to make Christmas wreaths. In the spring, paint large flowers, then cut them out and tape them to your front door for an instant "garden."
Collages are a creative way to use scraps of leftover materials and recyclables. Ask each child to create a collage that tells a story about himself. For example, a child might glue something pink (a favorite color), some dry noodles (a favorite food) and a photo of a family member on a piece of paper. To make it easier for the children to understand, stick with a few categories.
Make a necklace from dry macaroni noodles and string. Paint the noodles and let them dry, then string them on a piece of string in whatever order the child wishes. You can intersperse the noodles with buttons or plastic beads if the holes are big enough for a preschooler to maneuver a string through.
Let the students build something free-form--give them scissors, paper, tape and let them go at it--or guide them through making a paper hat, headband or other item. Cards are easy to make and are enjoyed by parents. For directions on how to make a paper holiday headband, see the link in Resources.