How to Choose Your Child's First Drawing Book
How do you choose your child's first drawing book? Match the method to their age, the subject to their interests and look for early wins.
To choose your child's first drawing book, match the method to their age (tracing for 3 to 4, step-by-step for 5 and up, grid for careful kids 7 and up), pick a subject they already love, and look for simple, forgiving characters that give early wins.
The right first drawing book can turn a child into a lifelong drawer. The wrong one can make them give up.
Match the method to age
- Ages 3 to 4: Trace Then Color books.
- Ages 5 to 8: How to Draw step-by-step books.
- Ages 7 and up: Draw by Grid books.
- All ages: Shape Drawing Challenge.
Match the subject to interests
- Animal lovers: animals, pets, sea creatures
- Dinosaur fans: dinosaurs, robot dinosaurs
- Builders: robots
- Silly kids: food monsters, Crusty Goobers
- Magic lovers: unicorns, mermaids, fairies
Look for early wins
Simple, round, friendly characters look good even when lines wobble. How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals is a very first drawing book for exactly this reason.
Use our book finder
Not sure? Try our book finder or browse drawing books by age.
Add a sketchbook
Kids who love their first book will want more space to draw. See why every kid should keep a sketchbook.
Questions parents ask
What is the best first drawing book for a child?
One that matches their age and interests, with simple, forgiving characters that give early wins.
What age should a child get a drawing book?
Tracing books work from about 3, step-by-step books from about 5 and grid books from about 7.
How do I choose between drawing book types?
Tracing for preschoolers, step-by-step for ages 5 and up and grid for careful, patient kids.
More in ways to learn to draw, or browse all 217 posts on the blog.
Keep reading
- Drawing Books vs Art Classes: What Kids NeedDrawing books or art classes: which does your child need? Compare cost, flexibility, feedback and social benefits to choose the best fit.
- Teaching Kids to Draw Faces and ExpressionsTeach kids to draw faces and expressions with simple shapes and funny features. Step-by-step tips plus games for drawing emotions.
- Why Animals Are the Best First Drawing SubjectWhy are animals the best first drawing subject? They're loved, built from simple shapes and forgiving. Tips for starting kids with animal drawings.
- Drawing Like a Scientist: Observation for KidsScientists draw what they see. Learn how drawing teaches kids to observe closely, ask questions and record details, with sea creatures as a fun start.
