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Children Draw: A Guide to Why, When and How Children Make Art

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Children Draw is a concise, richly illustrated book, aimed at parents, teachers, and caretakers, that explores why children draw and the meaning and value of drawing for youngsters—from toddlers aged two to pre-adolescents aged twelve. Informed by psychology and practical teaching with children, it guides readers through the progressive stages and characteristics of drawing development as children grow and change mentally, physically, socially, emotionally, and creatively. It offers parents tips about encouraging children to express their ideas visually, age-appropriate art materials, workspaces, and different media, as well as suggestions for making an art museum visit more meaningful—not to mention more fun—for both parents and kids. Packed with many delightful examples of children’s art, Children Draw is an essential book for parents interested in their child’s art activities.

192 pages, Hardcover

Published November 15, 2018

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5 stars
16 (32%)
4 stars
24 (48%)
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8 (16%)
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
Profile Image for Kathryn Pearson.
168 reviews4 followers
January 13, 2022
5 stars solely for all the children's drawings (which I think should be directly credited in the acknowledgements rather than just thanking parents/caregivers...) But was very excited about this and really enjoyed it. Has given me a whole new perspective of how to look at all art, not just children's, and also explore more with my own. Practical pointers too for those that have or work with children (although I personally would've loved even more depth within the Why section and perhaps additional resources!) Excited to continue the adventure with creative expression.
Profile Image for Дарья Дягелец.
93 reviews4 followers
July 27, 2025
Емкое и хорошо иллюстрированное исследование детского рисунка. Читала как педагог и мама. Не задумывалась о том, что в ясельном возрасте дети сосредоточены на ощущениях, которые получают от рисования - как держат кисть, карандаш или мелок.
Вообще, приведенная периодизация развития художественных способностей меня впечатлила. Я многого не знала. В том числе, не знала причин, почему в 12 лет дети перестают «классно» рисовать, а начинается какой-то отстой.
Еще отмечу рекомендации к организации творческого пространства для детей. Рекомендации к выбору материалов для творчества. Я поняла, что и как можно использовать.
В главе про музей мне понравилась рекомендация игры с портретами. Смешно и глубоко.
Profile Image for Bridgitte Rodguez.
453 reviews7 followers
November 23, 2024
This had some interesting insight into the developmental stages children go through through the lens of drawing. I picked it up as research for an art journal I’m writing for adults to tap back into their inner child artist. As a kid I always liked art/drawing— but I wasn’t ever very good, because back then, art was assumed—as it still is—as a talent one possesses rather than a skill that can be learned or taught. So I really loved her approach to not denigrating or judging kids’ artwork, because it is an expression of themselves. I would recommend this for everyone to read! Just provides a different way of looking at art and what it means.
Profile Image for Nat Schaefer.
72 reviews1 follower
June 24, 2025
Overall excellent guidance for approaching art with children. Some bits felt a little redundant. I know the philosophies here are backed by data and psychology, but for anyone who isn’t familiar, I think some clear explanations or getting a little more into the data could have been compelling. She does cite sources though - so readers can definitely wade into that themselves if they wish. Like some early childhood education books, it can sound a little dry and pretentious in some spots; which I hope does not turn anyone away from the guidance here - as I not only believe but have observed that these methods are wonderfully beneficial and supportive of young artists.
Profile Image for Max Cherepitsa.
112 reviews41 followers
March 15, 2021
Понравилось. Про этапы в детском рисовании, про то, как подбадривать рисовать, на что обращать внимание, с чем не приставать, про важность пространства для творчества и походы в музеи (с рекомендациями, как этот процесс сделать интереснее)
Profile Image for Valentina Bronitskaya.
12 reviews
June 22, 2021
Интересно про импульсы и смыслы, стадии детского рисования
Profile Image for Olivia Huss.
26 reviews1 follower
January 19, 2024
Great practical encouragement for interacting with kids and their drawings. Lots of information on the psychology side of things, wish I had been taking notes!
Profile Image for memma .
93 reviews5 followers
May 27, 2024
Хорошо, хотелось бы побольше актуальных исследований (самое недавнее 2015 года)

Много иллюстраций - детских рисунков 🥰🥰
Profile Image for Ira Bril.
39 reviews1 follower
October 16, 2025
Отличная книжка для учителей и родителей, которая рассказывает, почему и в каком возрасте дети рисуют то, что рисуют, как на это реагировать и какие вопросы задавать
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews

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