Drawing Conversation Starters for Quiet Kids
Quiet kids often open up while drawing. Try these drawing conversation starters that help reserved children share thoughts, feelings and stories.
Quiet kids often talk more while their hands are busy. Drawing conversation starters, like "Draw the best part of your day" or "Draw a face that shows how you feel", give reserved children a gentle way to share without the pressure of direct questions.
Some kids clam up when asked direct questions. Drawing shifts the focus from them to the paper, which can make talking much easier.
Why drawing opens up quiet kids
- Less eye contact. Side-by-side drawing feels less intense.
- Something to focus on. Hands are busy, minds relax.
- Indirect sharing. Talking about a drawing is easier than talking about yourself.
- Time to think. Drawing gives kids time to form their thoughts.
Drawing prompts that start conversations
- Draw the best part of your day.
- Draw something that made you laugh.
- Draw a face that shows how you feel right now.
- Draw your favorite place at school.
- Draw what you wish you could do this weekend.
- Draw something that is bothering you.
- Draw your friends as animals.
Grumpy faces break the ice
Sometimes the easiest way into a feelings conversation is through humor. How to Draw: Grumpy Faces features cranky characters that make kids laugh. Ask, "What do you think made him grumpy? Has anything made you grumpy lately?" Quiet kids often answer through the character.
Tips for parents
- Draw alongside them.
- Ask open questions, then wait.
- Do not push; accept short answers.
- Share your own drawing and feelings first.
Respect quiet
Some kids are naturally quiet, and that is fine. Drawing gives them a way to connect on their own terms. For more, see drawing feelings and drawing for selectively mute kids.
Questions parents ask
How can I get my quiet child to talk?
Try side-by-side activities like drawing, use open prompts and give them time to respond without pressure.
What are good drawing prompts to start a conversation?
Try "Draw the best part of your day," "Draw something that made you laugh," or "Draw a face that shows how you feel."
Why do kids talk more while drawing?
Busy hands, less eye contact and something to focus on can make children feel more relaxed and open.
More in friends, family and talking, or browse all 217 posts on the blog.
Keep reading
- Family Reunion Drawing Games for All AgesFamily reunion with kids of all ages? Drawing games bring cousins, grandparents and parents together. Try these easy, no-prep group drawing activities.
- What to Say When Your Child Shows You a Drawing"What is it?" isn't the best question. Learn what to say when your child shows you a drawing, with phrases that build confidence, language and connection.
- Drawing Helps Shy Kids Make FriendsShy kids often find it easier to connect through drawing than through talking. Learn how sharing drawings and drawing together helps kids make friends.
- Drawing Videos vs Drawing Books: Which Is Better?Should kids learn to draw from videos or books? Both have strengths. Here's how drawing videos and drawing books compare, and how to use both well.
