Drawing as Communication: When Words Are Hard
When words are hard, pictures can speak. Learn how drawing helps children communicate ideas, needs and feelings, from toddlers to kids with speech delays.
Drawing helps children communicate when words are hard because pictures can carry meaning before vocabulary catches up. Kids can show what happened, what they want or how they feel, and a drawing gives adults a starting point for conversation.
Drawing is one of humanity's oldest forms of communication, older than writing. For children, it is often their first way to share complex ideas.
When kids use drawing to communicate
- Before they have the words. Toddlers and preschoolers.
- When feelings are big. Emotions can be easier to draw than say.
- When learning a new language. Pictures bridge the gap.
- When they are shy or anxious. Drawing is less exposing than talking.
- When explaining something complex. A diagram can say more than a paragraph.
Faces say a lot
Expressions are a big part of communication. How to Draw: Goofy Faces helps kids learn to draw funny expressions, which they can use to show feelings, tell jokes or explain what happened. A child who can draw a surprised face can communicate surprise without a word.
Drawing as conversation
- Draw and tell. Child draws, then explains.
- Draw a request. "Draw what you want for dinner."
- Draw what happened. After an incident at school.
- Draw a plan. "Draw what you want to do this weekend."
Listening to drawings
Adults can learn a lot by watching kids draw and asking open questions. Let the child explain; do not interpret for them.
Support, not replacement
Drawing supports communication but does not replace speech development. If you are concerned about your child's speech or language, talk to your pediatrician or a speech-language pathologist. See also drawing and speech delay.
Questions parents ask
How does drawing help children communicate?
Drawing lets children express ideas, events and feelings visually, which helps when words are difficult or still developing.
Can drawing help a child who struggles to explain things?
Yes. Drawing what happened or what they need gives children a way to share and gives adults a starting point for conversation.
Is drawing a form of communication?
Yes. Drawing is one of the oldest forms of human communication and remains an important way for children to express ideas.
More in friends, family and talking, or browse all 217 posts on the blog.
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