I have always wished I had the ability to draw. Like, really really bad! I am so jealous of people that can draw more than a stick figure person. (Seriously, that is the extent of my skills). Scott, is a wonderful artist. Whenever I need a hand drawn image, I always go to him first. Even Greyson has started asking for his help when it comes to drawing. He pretty much knows that if he needs help finishing a picture, it is best to just wait until Daddy comes home… I will just ruin it. 🙁
Grey really enjoys drawing, and I want to do all I can to foster his love of art, while helping him become a great artist like his Daddy.
Over the past few years, I have learned some great ways to help him improve his skills and increase is love of drawing.
Have the appropriate mediums
The last thing you would ever want to do is to set a child up for failure. Make sure they have the appropriate sized drawing utensils. If they are using the wrong sizes, or type they will just become frustrated and upset!
- The younger the child the larger the drawing instruments should be. Think chalk, broad line markers, triangle crayons for the 3 year-olds!
- As they get older you can start transitioning to blackboard chalk, colored pencils and regular crayons.
- I try to avoid pens. Not because of the permanent nature, but because they have to be held “just right”. If they are not held perfectly the ink won’t transfer to the paper. Markers and crayons are my go to.
Switch things up!
I like to switch up where and how Greyson is drawing. There is nothing wrong with a standard sheet of paper and a marker, but adding in new options keeps things exciting for him. BONUS- by switching things up he spends more time drawing, and less time complaining that he is bored.
- Easels are fantastic. Ours is similar to this double sided one.
- I do not spend the money on dry erase markers. Not only do they stain clothes and hands, but crayola markers work just a good – if not better! Plus, they come in so many colors at just a fraction of the cost!
- Greyson’s favorite right now is drawing on his boogie board. In fact- I LOVE this too! It is awesome. I always keep this in my diaper bag. It keeps him occupied, for a really long time!
- We just got back from vacation – which involved a 7 hour drive (one way) Greyson used his boogie board for HOURS on the trip. We played hangman, tic-tac-toe and he drew pictures. It is so fantastic!
- Get outside and draw with some chalk in the driveway!
- WINDOWS! So fun. Let your child use the window markers to decorate them for upcoming holidays!
- Greyson will be creating some Halloween displays (On the windows in his room). I swear your kids will think you are the coolest mom on the planet!
Give them a little help
Books – Books and more Books!
I bought Greyson this Step-By-Step Drawing book. He is obsessed with it. (It also came on our road trip) I have found that by using it:
- His drawing confidence has shot through the roof!
- His abilities (even without using the book) increased significantly. Within about a week of using the book, his freestyle drawing was so much better!
They also have this, and this step-by-step drawing book.
Here are some of his drawings from the book:
I hope this has given you some helpful ideas on how to foster your child’s drawing skills!
Most importantly, it is imperative that you encourage their artistry, celebrate their new skills, and guide them along the way!
enjoy!
babas says
I am father of 5 year old daughter. It is not easy task to teach drawing to childrens. Your tips is really helpful for us. Thank you so much…..