Reluctant Drawer? Start With Something Silly
Some kids just don't want to draw. The secret? Start with something silly. Learn how funny, gross characters win over reluctant drawers.
Reluctant drawers are often won over by humor. Silly, gross or weird characters take the pressure off, because a funny drawing does not need to be "good". Once kids are laughing, they forget they did not want to draw.
Some kids avoid drawing because they think they are bad at it, find it boring or would rather do something active. Humor can change all of that.
Why silly works
- No pressure. Funny drawings are supposed to be weird.
- Laughter. Kids want to keep laughing.
- Rebellion. Gross stuff feels a little naughty.
- Sharing. Kids want to show friends.
Wonderfully weird characters
How to Draw: Crusty Goobers is made for kids who love gross-out humor. The Crusty Goobers are wonderfully weird, so wobbly lines just make them weirder. Many reluctant drawers discover they actually like drawing once they meet a Goober.
Tips
- Do not force it. Invite, do not demand.
- Draw alongside them. Make it social.
- Use their interests. Sports, games, animals.
- Keep it short. One quick drawing.
- Laugh together. Enjoy the silliness.
Other silly ideas
- Draw your teacher as an animal.
- Draw a monster made of boogers.
- Draw a dog wearing pants.
- Draw what your sibling looks like when grumpy (kindly).
For more, see funny drawings: why silly art is good for kids and my kid hates art.
Questions parents ask
How do I get my child interested in drawing?
Start with silly, funny subjects, follow their interests, draw alongside them and keep sessions short.
Why won't my child draw?
They may feel they are not good at it, find it boring or prefer active play. Humor and interest-based subjects can help.
What should reluctant drawers draw?
Silly monsters, gross characters, funny animals and subjects tied to their interests.
More in every kind of learner, or browse all 217 posts on the blog.
Keep reading
- My Kid Hates Art: Finding Their Way In"I hate art!" Some kids resist drawing. Here's how to find their way in, through interests, humor, challenges and building, without forcing it.
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- Why Grid Drawing Suits Careful, Anxious KidsCareful, anxious kids often love grid drawing. Its calm, square-by-square method gives control and predictability. Here's why it suits them.
- When Should Kids Start Drawing Lessons?When should kids start drawing lessons? Toddlers scribble, preschoolers trace and 5-year-olds can follow steps. A guide to the right start for each age.
