Getting kids to draw on a regular basis helps them develop drawing confidence, motor skills and even communication skills that are invaluable even in adulthood. Children that don't draw or get too frustrated to draw because they are perfectionists or lack confidence are loosing out by not developing that part of their brain that orchestrates the amazing triangle between hand, eye and brain, to produce drawings. Heavy duty, I know, but how else can I stress the importance of drawing?
That said I won't pretend that I've been the greatest at getting my kids to draw, even in light of the above, because sometimes life gets busy and we get off track. Which is why I was so thrilled when I saw this "drawing a day" project over at Se7en, that got us back on track. We haven't been able to follow it on a daily basis, but I'm shooting for three to four times a week, and so far so good.
See this drawing of kitchen utensils? It's hard to believe, but this drawing was done by the very same child who drew the keys just a few days later! I'm happy to say that I witnessed that little light that went off in the brain of my just eight year old, in which his drawing ability shot ahead by years when I explained to him how to look at something and draw it. He sat down with eraser and pencil in hand, and some keys, and diligently worked on his drawing, even sneaking off after dinner to finish it. One proud mama, and so very happy that on account of my perseverence I was able to help my youngest make a great leap forward.
One last thing — don't beat yourself up for not being more involved in your children's creative development, just start, commit to taking baby steps and all will be well!
