Water Fairy by the Pond

Seated on a broad lily pad at the edge of a calm pond, this graceful water fairy trails one hand in the water to send out gentle ripples. Slender dragonfly-like wings, swaying cattails, and a curious frog perched on a nearby leaf fill out a peaceful waterside scene. With a fairy, a frog, plants, and water all in one picture, the page gives colorists several different textures to explore — smooth water, leafy pads, fuzzy cattail tops. It suits school-age children who enjoy a fuller scene, though the main shapes stay friendly enough for younger helpers. Lily pads are the floating leaves of water lilies, and they really do hold frogs and insects above the surface in real ponds. Print the page on US Letter or A4, then color cool blues and greens for the water and a bright green frog to bring the pond to life.