20 Easy Kids Drawing Ideas

Simple Shapes and Patterns

Starting with basic shapes and patterns is an excellent way for children to grasp the fundamentals of drawing. Shapes like circles, squares, triangles, and rectangles are the building blocks of more complex drawings. Encourage your child to fill pages with these shapes, experimenting with different sizes and combinations.

Creating Patterns

Once they’re comfortable with basic shapes, introduce patterns. Patterns can be simple, like stripes or polka dots, or more intricate, like zigzags or chevrons. Drawing patterns helps children understand repetition and symmetry, essential art skills.

Tips for Success

• Start with a Pencil: Begin with a pencil so they can easily erase and adjust their shapes.
• Use Graph Paper: Graph paper can help children keep their shapes uniform and learn about alignment.
• Incorporate Colors: Once they have their shapes and patterns, add colors to make the drawings vibrant and lively.

Cute Animals

Drawing Animals Made Easy

Children love drawing animals, and it’s a great way to introduce them to different shapes and forms. Start with easy-to-draw animals like cats, dogs, and fish. Break down each animal into basic shapes and guide your child through the drawing process.

Animal Drawing Ideas

• Cats: Begin with a circle for the head, add two triangles for the ears, and then create the body and legs using ovals.
• Dogs: Similar to cats, start with basic shapes and then add details like paws and tails.
• Fish: Draw an oval for the body, and a triangle for the tail, and add fins and scales for details.

Tips for Success

• Use Reference Images: Show your child pictures of animals to give them a visual guide.
• Add Details Gradually: Start with simple shapes and build up to more detailed features.
• Encourage Creativity: Allow your child to use colors and patterns to personalize their animals.

Fantasy Characters

Exploring Imagination through Fantasy

Fantasy characters are a great way to spark creativity in children. Characters like dragons, fairies, and unicorns can be drawn using simple shapes and imaginative details. Encourage your child to come up with their fantasy creatures and stories.

Drawing Fantasy Characters

• Dragons: Start with a large oval for the body, add wings, legs, and a long tail. Use triangles for the spines and horns.
• Fairies: Draw a small oval for the head, add a larger oval for the body, and include wings made of curved lines.
• Unicorns: Begin with a horse-like shape, add a horn, and include magical elements like stars or sparkles.

Tips for Success

• Encourage Storytelling: Ask your child to describe their fantasy characters and create stories around them.
• Use Bright Colors: Fantasy characters are often colorful and magical, so use vibrant colors to bring them to life.
• Explore Textures: Experiment with different textures to make characters feel more magical.

Nature Scenes

Capturing the Beauty of Nature

Drawing nature scenes allows children to appreciate and replicate the beauty of the outdoors. Start with simple scenes like trees, flowers, and mountains. Teach them to observe their surroundings and translate that into their drawings.

Nature Drawing Ideas

• Trees: Draw a trunk and branches using curved lines, and add leaves or flowers for detail.
• Flowers: Begin with a circle for the center and draw petals around it. Experiment with different shapes and sizes.
• Mountains: Use triangular shapes to create mountains and add details like snow caps or trees.

Tips for Success

• Observe Nature: Go outside and look at real trees, flowers, and landscapes for inspiration.
• Use Different Mediums: Experiment with crayons, markers, or watercolors to capture the vibrancy of nature.
• Encourage Observation: Teach your child to notice details like textures and colors in nature.

Under the Sea

Exploring Ocean Life through Art

The underwater world is full of fascinating creatures and landscapes that are perfect for drawing. Start with easy sea creatures like fish, turtles, and starfish, and gradually move on to more complex scenes like coral reefs.

Drawing Underwater Scenes

• Fish: Draw a simple oval shape for the body, add fins, and use curved lines for the tail.
• Turtles: Begin with a rounded shell shape, add flippers, and draw a small head.
• Starfish: Draw a central shape with five arms extending outward.

Tips for Success

• Use Blue Tones: Blue and green colors can represent the ocean, and brighter colors can depict sea creatures.
• Add Bubbles: Draw bubbles to create a sense of underwater movement.
• Include Details: Add coral, seaweed, or sea shells to enhance the scene.

Space Adventures

Journey into the Cosmos with Art

Space is an exciting theme for drawing, full of opportunities for creativity. Kids can draw planets, stars, rockets, and aliens, allowing them to explore the universe through their art.

Drawing Space Scenes

• Planets: Draw circles for planets and add rings or craters for detail.
• Rockets: Start with a long, narrow shape for the body, add fins and a nose cone, and include flames for the rocket’s exhaust.
• Aliens: Create imaginative shapes and add features like antennas or multiple eyes.

Tips for Success

• Use Dark Backgrounds: Dark colors like black or navy blue can represent the vastness of space.
• Incorporate Glitter: Use glitter or metallic pens to add stars and make the scene sparkle.
• Be Creative: Encourage your child to invent their planets and space creatures.

Favorite Foods

Drawing Delicious Treats

Food is a fun and relatable subject for kids. Drawing their favorite foods can be both enjoyable and educational. Start with simple items like fruits, vegetables, or desserts, and gradually introduce more complex dishes.

Drawing Food Items

• Fruits: Draw basic shapes for fruits like apples, bananas, and oranges, and add details like leaves or peels.
• Desserts: Create simple shapes for cakes, ice cream, and cookies, and decorate them with patterns and colors.
• Vegetables: Use ovals or rectangles for vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and potatoes.

Tips for Success

• Use Real Food for Inspiration: Look at real fruits and vegetables to understand their shapes and colors.
• Add Details: Include textures like seeds or frosting to make the drawings more realistic.
• Encourage Creativity: Allow your child to invent their food items or combine different foods into a single drawing.

Vehicles and Transportation

Drawing the World on Wheels

Vehicles and transportation are exciting subjects for kids who love machines and movement. Start with basic vehicles like cars, trucks, and bicycles, and progress to more complex ones like airplanes and trains.

Drawing Vehicles

• Cars: Draw a simple rectangle for the body, add circles for wheels, and include details like windows and headlights.
• Trucks: Start with a larger rectangle for the body, add smaller rectangles for the cab and cargo area, and draw wheels.
• Bicycles: Draw two circles for wheels, connect them with lines for the frame, and add handlebars and pedals.

Tips for Success

• Use Reference Images: Show your child pictures of different vehicles to help them visualize their drawings.
• Experiment with Colors: Use bright colors to make the vehicles stand out.
• Add Motion: Draw lines or effects to show movement or speed.

Seasonal Drawings

Celebrating the Seasons through Art

Seasonal drawings are a wonderful way to connect art with the changing seasons. From winter snowflakes to summer beaches, seasonal drawings can reflect the beauty of nature throughout the year.

Drawing Seasonal Scenes

• Spring: Draw flowers, rainbows, and butterflies. Use bright colors and include details like raindrops and budding leaves.
• Summer: Create beach scenes with sun, sand, and surfboards. Add details like seashells and palm trees.
• Autumn: Draw falling leaves, pumpkins, and acorns. Use warm colors like orange and brown.
• Winter: Create snow scenes with snowmen, mittens, and icicles. Use cool colors like blue and white.

Tips for Success

• Emphasize Colors: Use colors that reflect the season to enhance the mood of the drawings.
• Include Seasonal Details: Add elements like snowflakes or flowers to make the drawings feel authentic.
• Encourage Storytelling: Ask your child to describe their seasonal scenes and the activities taking place.

Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Creatures

Journey Back in Time with Dinosaurs

Dinosaurs captivate children’s imaginations, making them a popular drawing subject. Start with simple dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures, and then introduce more complex designs as your child’s skills develop.

Drawing Dinosaurs

• T-Rex: Draw a large oval for the body, add a smaller circle for the head, and include legs, arms, and a tail.
• Triceratops: Begin with a rounded shape for the body, add a frill and three horns on the head, and draw four legs.
• Pterodactyl: Draw a small body with large wings and a long tail.

Tips for Success

• Use Reference Images: Show pictures of dinosaurs to help with accurate shapes and features.
• Add Details: Include textures like scales or spots for a more realistic look.
• Encourage Creativity: Allow your child to invent their prehistoric creatures.

Superheroes and Villains

Creating Action-Packed Characters

Superheroes and villains are always a hit with kids. Drawing these dynamic characters allows children to explore their imagination and create action-filled scenes.

Drawing Superheroes

• Superhero Costumes: Draw a simple figure and add a cape, mask, and emblem. Include details like muscles and accessories.
• Super Powers: Illustrate powers like flying, shooting beams, or lifting objects. Use lines or effects to show action.
• Villains: Create characters with unique costumes, weapons, and menacing features.

Tips for Success

• Encourage Imagination: Let your child design their own superhero or villain with unique powers and costumes.
• Use Bold Colors: Bright, contrasting colors can make the characters stand out.
• Add Action Effects: Use lines or motion effects to show movement and power.

Family Portraits

Drawing Loved Ones

Drawing family members is a meaningful way for children to connect with their loved ones. Start with simple portraits and encourage your child to add personal details and expressions.

Drawing Family Members

• Heads and Faces: Draw simple shapes for heads, add eyes, noses, and mouths, and include hairstyles.
• Body and Clothing: Use basic shapes for bodies and clothing. Add details like patterns or accessories.
• Personal Touches: Include favorite items or activities that represent each family member.

Tips for Success

• Use Photos for Reference: Look at family photos to help with accurate features and details.
• Encourage Personalization: Allow your child to add special touches or backgrounds.
• Make It Fun: Turn it into a family activity where everyone draws their portrait.

Imaginary Worlds

Exploring Creative Landscapes

Imaginary worlds provide endless possibilities for creativity. Encourage your child to create their fantastical landscapes and scenarios, blending elements from their imagination.

Drawing Imaginary Worlds

• Landscapes: Draw unusual terrains, like floating islands or underwater cities. Use bright colors and unique shapes.
• Buildings and Structures: Create whimsical houses, castles, or futuristic buildings. Add details like flags or towers.
• Characters and Creatures: Populate the world with original characters and creatures that fit the theme.

Tips for Success

• Encourage Creativity: Allow your child to experiment with different ideas and settings.
• Use Mixed Media: Combine drawing with other materials like stickers or fabric to enhance the artwork.
• Tell a Story: Ask your child to explain their imaginary world and its inhabitants.

Cartoon Characters

Bringing Cartoons to Life

Cartoon characters are fun and familiar subjects for kids. Drawing their favorite characters can be a great way to practice artistic skills and have fun.

Drawing Cartoons

• Simple Shapes: Start with basic shapes to create the character’s body and features.
• Facial Expressions: Add expressive eyes, mouths, and eyebrows to capture the character’s personality.
• Accessories: Include signature items or clothing to make the character recognizable.

Tips for Success

• Use Reference Images: Show pictures or clips of the cartoon characters for guidance.
• Experiment with Styles: Encourage your child to try different cartoon styles or create their own.
• Add Backgrounds: Include simple backgrounds or props to enhance the drawing.

Abstract Art

Exploring Creative Expression

Abstract art allows children to experiment with shapes, colors, and patterns without the constraints of realistic representation. It’s a great way to foster creativity and self-expression.

Drawing Abstract Art

• Shapes and Lines: Use various shapes and lines to create interesting compositions. Experiment with overlapping and layering.
• Colors and Patterns: Use vibrant colors and different patterns to add depth and texture to the artwork.
• Freedom of Expression: Encourage your child to let their imagination guide their drawing process.

Tips for Success

• Encourage Experimentation: Let your child try different techniques and materials.
• Focus on Expression: Emphasize that abstract art is about personal expression rather than accuracy.
• Use Mixed Media: Combine drawing with painting or collage to create more complex abstract art.

Famous Landmarks

Drawing Iconic Structures

Drawing famous landmarks can be both educational and fun. Kids can learn about different cultures and places while practicing their drawing skills.

Drawing Landmarks

• Eiffel Tower: Start with a tall, narrow triangle and add intersecting lines for the tower’s structure.
• Statue of Liberty: Draw the statue’s outline, including the torch and crown, and add details like folds in the robe.
• Great Wall of China: Use a series of interconnected lines and towers to represent the wall’s structure.

Tips for Success

• Use Reference Images: Show pictures of landmarks to help with accurate proportions and details.
• Add Context: Include background elements or landscapes to place the landmark in context.
• Encourage Research: Let your child learn about the landmarks they are drawing.

Weather Wonders

Drawing Different Weather Conditions

Weather provides a diverse range of drawing subjects. From sunny days to rainy storms, weather-related drawings can be fun and educational.

Drawing Weather Scenes

• Sunny Days: Draw the sun, clouds, and a clear sky. Use bright colors like yellow and blue.
• Rainy Days: Illustrate rain clouds, raindrops, and umbrellas. Use shades of gray and blue.
• Snowy Days: Create snowflakes, snowmen, and frosty landscapes. Use white and light blue colors.

Tips for Success

• Experiment with Textures: Use different techniques to represent various weather effects.
• Incorporate Movement: Draw elements like wind or rain to show dynamic weather conditions.
• Use Real Weather: Observe current weather conditions for inspiration.

Fairy Tales and Story Scenes

Bringing Stories to Life

Fairy tales and story scenes are a wonderful way to encourage creativity and storytelling. Children can illustrate their favorite stories or create new ones.

Drawing Story Scenes

• Fairy Tales: Draw scenes from classic fairy tales, like Cinderella’s Ball or Jack and the Beanstalk. Include key characters and settings.
• Storytelling: Create original stories and draw scenes that depict different parts of the story.
• Characters and Settings: Include characters, magical elements, and backgrounds to complete the scene.

Tips for Success

• Encourage Imagination: Let your child invent their fairy tales and storylines.
• Use Colors and Details: Use vibrant colors and detailed backgrounds to enhance the storytelling.
• Create a Book: Compile the drawings into a storybook to celebrate their creative work.

Fun with Letters and Numbers

Learning Through Drawing

Incorporating letters and numbers into drawings can be both educational and fun. Kids can practice writing while creating imaginative artwork.

Drawing Letters and Numbers

• Alphabet Art: Create drawings using letters, like animals or objects that start with each letter.
• Number Fun: Draw scenes that incorporate numbers, such as counting objects or number-themed characters.
• Interactive Art: Combine letters and numbers with creative elements like patterns or shapes.

Tips for Success

• Use Fun Fonts: Experiment with different letter styles and fonts for added interest.
• Combine Learning with Fun: Use the drawings to reinforce learning concepts like counting or spelling.
• Encourage Creativity: Allow your child to create their designs using letters and numbers.

Creative Self-Portraits

Expressing Individuality Through Art

Drawing self-portraits is a fantastic way for children to explore their identity and express themselves. Start with basic shapes and encourage your child to add personal details.

Drawing Self-Portraits

• Basic Shapes: Draw a simple oval for the face, add eyes, nose, and mouth, and include hair and clothing.
• Personal Details: Add features like glasses, freckles, or favorite clothing items.
• Backgrounds: Include backgrounds that reflect the child’s interests or favorite places.

Tips for Success

• Use Mirrors or Photos: Look at a mirror or photos for accurate details and features.
• Encourage Expression: Allow your child to express their personality through their self-portrait.
• Create a Gallery: Display the self-portraits to celebrate their unique artistic expressions.

FAQs About Kids Drawing Ideas

What are some easy drawing materials for kids?

Basic materials include pencils, crayons, markers, and colored pencils. For older children, watercolor paints and sketchbooks can be added.

How can I encourage my child to draw more?

Provide a variety of drawing materials, create a dedicated art space, and participate in drawing activities together.

Are there any online resources for kids’ drawing ideas?

Yes, websites like Pinterest, YouTube, and educational art sites offer tutorials and inspiration for kids’ drawings.

What age is appropriate for introducing drawing to children?

Drawing can start as early as 2-3 years old, with simple shapes and scribbles. As children grow, introduce more complex drawing techniques.

How can I help my child improve their drawing skills?

Encourage practice, provide constructive feedback, and expose them to different drawing styles and techniques.

Are there any benefits to drawing for children?

Yes, drawing helps improve fine motor skills, creativity, and emotional expression. It also enhances problem-solving and cognitive abilities.

How can I make drawing time fun for my child?

Incorporate themes or challenges, use different drawing materials, and create a relaxed and encouraging environment.

What should I do if my child feels frustrated with drawing?

Offer support, remind them that practice makes perfect, and focus on the fun aspects of drawing rather than perfection.

Final Words

Drawing is a wonderful activity that fosters creativity, fine motor skills, and emotional expression in children. With these 20 easy drawing ideas, you can inspire your child to explore their artistic talents and enjoy hours of creative fun. Whether they’re drawing dinosaurs, superheroes, or their imaginary worlds, each drawing session is an opportunity for growth and discovery. Encourage your child to experiment, express themselves, and most importantly, have fun with their art. By providing a variety of drawing ideas and materials, you’ll help nurture their artistic abilities and create lasting memories.