My First Scribbles

1. 1

   Is your child starting to enjoy scribbling? Set out several thick washable markers in different colors and a large sheet of white paper so they can explore how drawing tools work.

2. 2

   Let your child begin in their own way. Whether they draw lines, circles, or scattered dots, hold back from correcting them. Every motion is an experiment in controlling the marker.

3. 3

   Respond to what your child creates: “You made so many lines. Want to add some circles?” A simple comment can help keep their interest going.

4. 4

   If your child repeats one motion, demonstrate a different one or offer a new color. They may naturally shift from lines to dots or loops.

5. 5

   For another playful challenge, invite your child to hold two—or even three—markers at once and discover what different grips can create.

What to notice

• Adjusts how they hold a drawing tool while scribbling on paper Fine Motor
• Shows interest by picking up a drawing tool and scribbling Initiative and Curiosity

Tips

• Scribbles do not need to look like recognizable pictures at this age. Let your child draw freely, repeat movements, and enjoy creating.
• Each new color or motion asks your child to adjust their grip and control the pressure and direction of the marker, gradually strengthening #PMP-FiM.

Developmental benefits

• Movement: During free scribbling, your child experiments with different grips and moves a drawing tool across the paper, building early tool-use skills.