Developing kindergarten lessons can be very challenging, especially at the beginning of the school year when many students are just learning to cut paper and hold crayons. The author's favorite beginning unit of the year is "mice paintings," a practical introduction to drawing, color theory, and painting. This unit also incorporates children's literature by using the story "Mouse Paint" by Ellen Stoll Walsh to introduce color theory. Students learn about different kinds of lines and ways to use them in their artwork and practice painting and cutting skills. This lesson provides an outstanding foundation for a successful year in art. (Contains 1 resource.)