Encouraging Scribbling in Kids

By Dr. Anukriti|1 - 2 mins read| October 09, 2024

According to the American Association of Pediatrics, scribbling is a vital milestone in child development, typically emerging between 12-16 months. Scribbling lays the foundation for future writing skills, fine motor development, and cognitive growth. As a parent, you play a significant role in helping children achieve each milestone. Here are activities which can encourage scribbling:

CDC-Recommended Activities for Encouraging Scribbling

Given below are some simple activities which would encourage your toddler to develop a skill of scribbling

  • Crayon and paper play: Provide large crayons and paper. Allow your child to draw random shapes and draw with them.
  • Finger painting: Explore textures and colors of paper and materials like crayons or paints. You have let your child paint simple things like flowers and butterflies using their fingers as the medium
  • Scribble boards: You can use chalk or whiteboard markers instead of pen and paper for drawing and scribbling.
  • Drawing simple shapes: Encourage  your child to draw simple things like circles, squares, and lines.
  • Imitation drawing: Copy simple shapes and lines while encouraging your child to copy you.
  • Storytelling through drawing: You can encourage narrative storytelling and correlate it with simple drawings.
  • Make it fun: Incorporate games and challenges so that scribbling doesn't feel like a tedious task to learn for your child. 
  • Provide opportunities: Offer various materials and surfaces to your child for exploring. 
  • Encourage experimentation: Explore various different techniques and which one your child might enjoy.
  • Praise progress: Celebrate small achievements of your child.

Conclusion

Scribbling is a crucial milestone in child development. By incorporating these recommended activities into your daily routine, you'll nurture your child's fine motor, cognitive, and creative skills. 


TheParentZ provides Parenting Tips & Advice to parents.

Written by Dr. Anukriti

Last Updated: Wed Oct 09 2024

This disclaimer informs readers that the views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the above blog/article text are the personal views of the author, and not necessarily reflect the views of The ParentZ. Any omission or errors are the author's and we do not assume any liability or responsibility for them.

Top