Every scribble is a masterpiece in progress. Here’s how to talk to your child about their art, starting with “Tell me about your picture.”
To a grown-up, it might look like a tangle of lines. To your child, it might be a dog, a rocket and a birthday party all at once. When we ask “What is it?” they can feel they got it wrong. When we say “Tell me about it,” the door opens.
What it means for your child
Art looks different at each age, and every stage counts.
- Babies: Older babies can hold a chunky crayon and make marks, with you right there. The fun is in the moving, not the picture.
- Toddlers: Scribbles, dots and big circles. They love the feel of making marks. Tape the paper to the table so it doesn’t slide.
- Preschoolers: Now pictures start to have stories. Ask about colors, people and what’s happening, and write down their words.
- School-age kids: Big kids may get frustrated when a drawing doesn’t look “right.” Praise their ideas and effort, and show them a few drawing tricks.
Try this tonight
Tonight, have a little art show at home.
- Give your child paper and crayons, and let them draw whatever they want.
- When they’re done, say, “Tell me about your picture,” and listen.
- Write their words on the back, and hang it on the fridge like a museum piece.
Words you can use
- “Tell me about your picture.”
- “I love all the colors you used.”
- “How did you make this part?”
At Nana’s Place
From babies as young as 6 weeks to kids of 12, Nana’s Place offers day, evening and overnight care at two Glendale buildings. Every scribble tells a story, and we love hearing them. Book a visit.
Questions parents ask
Should I tell my child their drawing is good?
Try describing instead of judging. “You used so much blue!” or “Tell me about this part” shows you really looked, and it helps them keep creating.
My child only scribbles. Is that normal?
Scribbling is a big part of drawing for little ones, and every child moves on at their own pace. If you have questions about how your child is growing, ask their doctor.
Art can be messy, and that’s the fun of it. There’s more in Messy hands mean busy minds. And remember, every child blooms in their own time.
