One famous artist was an unusual boy from early childhood – very sensitive and quiet. He felt uncomfortable in the company of his peers, and communicating with them was difficult for him. His parents noticed this peculiarity of their son. But instead of forcing him to socialize, they decided to support him in a different way.
One day, when the boy turned five, his parents gave him a set of paints and brushes. Since they had noticed how much their son was fascinated by colors and shapes. And when he started painting, it became clear that this activity brought him joy. Every time he took a brush in hand, he seemed to immerse himself in his own world, where he felt happy. Painting became his outlet, a way to express himself, and his personal way of communicating with others. Already at the age of 30, in 1910, he created the first abstract work, which marked the beginning of a new direction in art. His name was Wassily Kandinsky. And his art changed the perception of painting.
The support of his parents turned out to be crucial. They noticed his interest in drawing in time and helped him develop his talent. A similar story exists with Frida Kahlo, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Henri Matisse, and other famous artists. Drawing served as therapy and a way to overcome problems for them from early childhood.
You too can direct your child’s energy towards creativity. And we will tell you how to teach your child to draw.
Why is it important to teach a child to draw and how to approach this process?
Drawing is one of the first types of creative activities a child encounters. This process not only brings joy but also plays an important role in a child’s development. From an early age, you may notice how your child eagerly picks up pencils or brushes and tries to leave the first traces on paper. Therefore, it is important for you – as parents – to approach drawing lessons for children responsibly.
Why is it important for a child to learn to draw? There are several reasons for this.
Firstly, drawing helps a child develop the ability to visualize and imagine ideas. When a child draws, they learn to recognize proportions, shapes, and the placement of objects in space.
Secondly, in the process of drawing, the fingertips actively participate, which stimulates brain activity through nerve endings and helps in the development of speech and cognitive skills.
Thirdly, drawing for children is a great way to express their emotions and relax. Through their drawings, you can understand what is worrying or, conversely, what is making your child happy. Moreover, drawing develops imagination, creativity, and aesthetic perception. As adults, they will be able to find unconventional solutions, combine different elements, and create something new and unique.
Drawing can become a powerful tool for overcoming psychological difficulties in children. It helps them express emotions they cannot put into words, reduces stress, and creates a sense of security. Even small successes in drawing contribute to boosting self-esteem and self-confidence. The process requires concentration and attention, which helps children develop skills necessary for overcoming anxiety. For children who have experienced traumatic events, drawing can become a safe way to process what they have gone through. Through their drawings, children can convey their thoughts and feelings, while also developing communication and imagination skills. All of these aspects help children build emotional resilience and better cope with life’s challenges.
If you want to introduce your child to drawing, follow these simple tips:
Remember, the process of learning to draw takes time and patience. Create a supportive and enjoyable atmosphere for creativity, and over time, your child will be able to delight you with amazing creations.
At what age can a child be introduced to drawing?
You can introduce a child to drawing at a very early age. Usually, the interest in drawing something on paper arises in toddlers when they see adults writing or drawing. Around the age of one, a child begins to reach for pencils and markers, imitating their parents. This is a great moment to offer them their first creative materials.
It’s best to start as early as possible, once the child’s hands are strong enough. This is individual, but by the age of one and a half to two years, most children are ready to hold a pencil or brush. It’s important not to limit the child with strict rules at this age. Let them draw in the way they like. At this stage, they will just be making scribbles.
Recommendations for parents of a “budding artist”:
By the age of three, most children start drawing more consciously. They can depict people, animals, houses, and familiar objects. At this age, the child has better control of their hand movements and begins to add details to their drawings.
Remember that drawing is not just entertainment, but an important developmental stage that helps shape personality and emotional intelligence. The earlier you introduce your child to pencils and paints, the more opportunities for self-expression and creative development you will provide.
From scribbles to masterpieces: stages of development of visual skills in children of different ages
The development of basic drawing skills in children goes through several stages, each of which is important in its own way. Parents should understand which stage their child is in to properly support their interest in artistic creativity. Let’s take a look at how children master drawing at different ages and how you can help them.
The “Scribbling” Stage
At this stage, children aged 1 to 3 are just beginning to get acquainted with drawing tools—pencils, markers, crayons. Their drawings consist of chaotic lines, dots, and circles. Although these scribbles may seem meaningless, they play an important role in developing hand motor skills. The child learns to coordinate their movements and begins to understand that their actions leave marks on paper.
At this stage, parents need to do two things:
The Symbolic Stage
At this age (3-4 years old), the child begins to understand that lines and shapes represent real objects. They may draw circles as heads and straight lines as legs. Often, children start to name their drawings, even if what is depicted on paper is not always easy to recognize.
Tips for parents:
Subject Drawing
Children aged 4 to 7 begin to create more meaningful and realistic images. They draw people, animals, houses, adding details such as eyes, mouths, arms, and legs. Their drawings become more structured, and stories begin to emerge in them.
At this stage, offer your child coloring books where they need to color in shapes to help them learn precision and patience. Also, engage in drawing with your child, showing how to add details and develop stories in their drawings.
Realistic stage
Children aged 7 to 12 begin to pay more attention to proportions, perspective, and fine details. They strive to make their drawings more realistic and may start learning various drawing techniques, such as shading and color blending.
Allow the child to experiment with different materials and techniques so they can find their own style. It is also important to continue supporting their interest in drawing, offering them to study works by famous artists and try to copy their technique.
Search for style and self-expression
In adolescence, children begin to actively search for their own style and express their thoughts and emotions through drawing. Drawing becomes a means of self-expression and exploring the world around them.
Advice for parents:
Remember that each child develops at their own pace. The key is support and encouragement. Create a comfortable environment for creativity, and drawing will become an important part of your child’s life, helping them grow as a person.
Drawing techniques for children of different ages
There are many drawing techniques suitable for children of different ages. These techniques take into account the child’s developmental level, motor skills, and interests, making the learning process more engaging and effective. Here are some drawing techniques for children that can be used depending on their age.
Children aged 1-3 years:
Children aged 3-5 years:
Children aged 5-7 years:
Children aged 7-10 years:
Children aged 10 years and older:
These techniques help children not only develop their artistic skills but also improve coordination, concentration, and imagination. It is important for parents to support the child’s interest in drawing and provide opportunities to experiment with various materials and methods.
Simple and effective methods for teaching children to draw
There are simple yet effective methods of teaching a child to draw, which help develop creative abilities and an interest in visual arts as a whole. Here are some of them. You can choose any option that is comfortable for your child.
Dot-to-Dot Drawing
This method allows you to teach your child to draw step-by-step with simple pictures. Connecting the dots improves coordination, develops attentiveness, and boosts confidence.
Using this technique, start with simple drawings with a few dots, gradually increasing the complexity. Encourage your child to color the finished image to make the process more fun. Also, talk to your child about what they are drawing to develop their vocabulary and perception of objects.
Shading and Tracing
Suggest that children trace the contours of various shapes or objects and then fill them in with shading. This teaches them to control their hand and develop a sense of form.
Start with familiar objects like fruits or animals so the child can focus on details. Hold joint activities, demonstrating how to shade objects in different ways: vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. Use colored pencils to create various textures and teach the child color combinations.
Drawing with Simple Shapes
This method is based on breaking down complex objects into simple geometric shapes, which helps the child understand the basic principles of drawing construction.
Tips for parents:
Finger and Hand Painting
This method allows children to feel textures and shapes, develops sensory skills, and provides freedom for creativity.
To teach your child to paint with paints, prepare a workspace with an apron and protective covers for the table so they can freely experiment. The paints should be easily washable. Therefore, use so-called finger paints. They allow the child to create drawings with their hands or even their whole palm and are easy to wash off. During the creative process, ask the child to describe what they feel when they touch the paint and encourage them to create different textures and patterns.
Using Templates and Stencils
Templates and stencils help the child understand basic shapes and proportions while providing confidence in the results.
Start with simple stencils like stars or circles so the child can easily create an image. Involve the child in creating their own stencils by cutting them out of cardboard or thick paper. Gradually remove the stencils, encouraging the child to draw shapes independently, using the acquired skills.
Copying Pictures
Copying helps children develop observation and attention to detail, teaching them to analyze images and reproduce them.
Tips for parents:
Drawing from Memory and Imagination
This method develops imagination and creative thinking, allowing the child to express their thoughts and fantasies through drawings. Here are some tips on how to use this technique:
Regular Practice
Regular drawing sessions contribute to the gradual development of skills and build confidence in their abilities. Therefore, create a “creativity corner” at home where the child can draw at any time. Make sure it has all the necessary materials. Set a regular time for drawing, such as after school or before bed, so that it becomes part of the daily routine. Store the child’s artwork and hold home exhibitions so they can see the results of their efforts and take pride in them.
Parental support and interest play a key role in developing a child’s creative skills. It’s important not only to teach technique but also to encourage independent creativity by creating a favorable atmosphere for the development of imagination.
Features of drawing with children of different ages
Drawing for children is not just entertainment. It is an important element of their development, contributing to the formation of fine motor skills, imagination, and creative thinking. However, the approach to drawing lessons for children should change depending on the child’s age, mental, and emotional development. It is important to understand what features are characteristic of a child at different ages and how to organize the creative process so that it brings joy and benefits.
Drawing with toddlers up to 3 years old: exploring the world through creativity
At this stage, children actively explore the world through sensations. Their movements are not yet coordinated, fine motor skills are just beginning to develop, and the drawing process becomes an exciting way for them to learn.
Among the materials suitable for toddlers are finger paints, large wax crayons, and soft pencils. Large-format paper allows the child to freely swing their arm without being restricted in movement.
At this age, it is important to let the child freely experiment with materials. Let them draw lines, spots, explore colors, and textures. Do not correct them or demand meaningful images. The main thing is to give the child confidence and enjoyment from the process.
What to discuss? Even with such young children, you can talk about what they are drawing. Ask: “What color do you like?” or “What do you want to draw?”. Discussion helps develop speech and maintains interest in creativity.
Drawing with preschoolers aged 3-6 years: expanding the stock of visual symbols
By the age of 3-5, children begin to consciously draw simple objects. At this stage, they are fascinated by the surrounding world and strive to reflect it in their drawings. Their motor skills become more developed, allowing them to create controlled lines and simple shapes.
For drawing at this age, wax crayons, watercolors, gouache, and pencils are suitable. Use standard thick paper that holds the paint well and allows experimentation with various techniques.
It is important to maintain the child’s interest in drawing by offering them to depict simple and familiar objects such as houses, trees, the sun. Do not criticize the child’s work; instead, encourage them to experiment with colors and shapes. When the child starts drawing, gently clarify what they want to depict and offer unobtrusive help. For example, ask: “A horse… How many legs does it have? Four? And who is riding it?”
What to discuss? Talking to the child about their drawings helps develop imagination and enriches their vocabulary. You can ask: “What did you want to show with this drawing?” or “What colors did you choose and why?”. This helps children better understand their creative choices and express them in words.
Elementary school age: improving drawing skills
When children start school, their interest in creating more complex images increases. By this time, they already have good control over fine motor skills, can draw precise shapes, and aim to depict the world around them more realistically.
For children of this age, pencils, markers, watercolors, pastels, and even more complex materials such as charcoal or acrylic paints are suitable. Drawing albums or thicker paper (watercolor paper, cardboard, poster paper, canvas) can be used for paint experiments.
It is important to support and develop the child’s skills by helping them plan their drawings and add details. You can suggest drawing themes like “Fairy Tale World” or “My Favorite Character” to showcase progress in their work.
What to discuss? You can ask: “What do you think could be added here?” or “What color would be better for this object?”. This helps the child think about details and improve their work.
Children over 10 years old: learning about composition and proportions
At this age, children are already capable of creating more complex and meaningful works. They begin to understand the basics of composition, proportions, and perspective, as well as express their emotions and experiences through drawings.
For this age, almost all artistic materials are suitable, including acrylic paints, oils, and charcoal. Various types of paper, canvases, and special art tools will help children experiment with different techniques.
Encourage the child’s observation by offering them to draw from life or memory. This is a good age for learning the basics of art and technique. It is important to support the child’s desire for self-expression, help them develop an individual style, and experiment with new techniques.
What to discuss? At this age, discussions of drawings can involve more complex topics, such as emotions and symbolism. You can ask: “What feelings did you want to convey with this drawing?” or “What inspired you to create this work?”. This helps the child think about the meaning of their works, contributing to the development of artistic thinking.
Advice for parents! Use online tutorials and painting books to diversify your child’s drawing education and make the lessons fun and interesting. Here are a few examples:
Drawing is an important part of a child’s development that helps them express emotions, develop imagination, and improve coordination skills. It is important to maintain an interest in creativity at every stage, giving freedom for experimentation and self-expression. Remember, there are no wrong decisions in the drawing process – each child’s drawing is unique and valuable.
Mistakes in approaching children's drawing that should be avoided
Drawing for children plays an important role in their development. However, the approach parents take to this process can either inspire or stifle a child’s creativity. Below, we will discuss common mistakes to avoid and ways to approach drawing lessons for children correctly.
Mistake #1: Expecting too much from the child.
One of the most common mistakes parents make is expecting the child to create “masterpieces” from a very early age. Such expectations can put pressure on the child, causing fear of not meeting those expectations. This can reduce the desire to even make an attempt.
How to avoid it? It is important to understand that drawing for children is primarily a way of self-expression, not about creating perfect images. Do not evaluate the child’s work as “right” or “wrong”. Instead, focus on the process and support any efforts they make. Praise for effort and creative approach will help the child feel confident and continue to develop.
Mistake #2: Comparing with other children.
Comparing your child’s drawings with those of their peers or older siblings can lead to feelings of insecurity and disappointment. This is especially negative for younger children who may feel “worse” or “incapable”.
How to avoid it? Every child develops at their own pace and has unique abilities. Instead of comparisons, focus on supporting your child’s individuality and creative exploration. Praise them for original ideas and for their efforts to express their thoughts and feelings through art.
Mistake #3: Correcting the child’s drawings.
Many parents, wanting to help, start correcting the child’s drawings, adding details or changing what has already been drawn. This can make the child feel that their efforts are insufficient or that their ideas do not matter.
How to avoid it? Allow the child to decide how their drawing should look. Even if the image seems “wrong” to you, it is important for the child to learn from their own mistakes and develop their creativity. If you want to show them a different way of drawing, do it on a separate sheet of paper so as not to disrupt their work.
Mistake #4: Restricting material choices.
Some parents try to limit the child’s choice of materials, providing only those they consider safe or appropriate. This can restrict the child’s creative potential and prevent them from fully expressing themselves.
How to avoid it? Give the child the freedom to choose materials and techniques they want to use. Allow them to experiment with different paints, pencils, paper, and even unconventional materials like fabric, leaves, or sand. This will help the child develop their imagination and find new ways of self-expression.
Mistake #5: Imposing drawing themes.
Imposing drawing themes on a child can lead to a loss of interest in the process. When the child draws something they are not interested in, they feel restricted and cannot fully express their thoughts and emotions.
How to avoid it? Allow the child to choose what they want to draw. If they have difficulty choosing a theme, you can suggest a few options, but do not insist on any one. It is important for drawing to remain an engaging and free process for the child.
Mistake #6: Criticizing the child’s work.
Criticizing drawings, even with good intentions, can negatively affect the child’s self-esteem and their desire to continue drawing. Children may perceive criticism as a sign that they are not succeeding or meeting expectations.
How to avoid it? Instead of criticism, try asking questions about what the child wanted to depict and why they chose certain elements. For example: “Tell me, what is shown in this drawing?” or “Why did you choose this color?”. Support their interest in drawing by showing that you value their efforts and creativity.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you will help your child develop their creative abilities and enjoy the drawing process. Remember, the most important thing is support, respect for the child’s individuality, and creating a positive atmosphere for their creative development. Drawing should bring joy, not stress or disappointment.
Question and answer
To teach a child to paint, start with simple steps. Offer the little one the chance to use a large brush or their fingers to get used to texture and color. Show them how to mix paints and observe how new colors are created. This engages them and develops their understanding of color combinations. You can try coloring simple drawings together, using stencils, drawing circles, lines, squares, and other basic shapes. This will help the child better control the brush.
Gradually introduce simple techniques, such as brush strokes, shading, or filling shapes with color. It is important to support the creative process and avoid criticizing the results.
Drawing lessons for children are best started with the basics. Choose simple materials: paper, colored pencils, wax crayons, markers, and water-soluble paints. Explain how to hold a pencil or brush correctly, and show how to create lines, shapes, dots, and strokes.
Let the child choose the subject for drawing to keep the process engaging. Show how to create images using simple shapes such as circles, squares, and triangles. Start with easy tasks, such as drawing a tree, a house, or the sun. Gradually move on to more complex tasks, like drawing simple objects and animals. It is important to maintain interest in drawing by encouraging creative successes.
To teach a child to draw simple images, let them choose the drawing themselves. This way, the child will be more interested in learning.
Next, explain how complex images can be broken down into simple shapes. For example, to draw a person, use circles for the head and body, and lines for the arms and legs. Show step-by-step how to draw simple objects: a face, an animal, or a flower. Encourage the child to follow along with you. You can also ask them to add to or trace simple shapes. All activities with young children should be conducted in a playful manner.
Practice is key in learning to draw simple images, so repeat the same task several times until the child masters it.
