Drawing can be a fun past time for kids at any age, but let’s face not all of us are natural-born artists. That’s where drawing toys come in. Knowing how to create real pictures can be tricky, and unless taught not something that will develop on its own. However, learning to draw (at least simple everyday objects) does not have to be tricky. I selected a few toys and books (ok 19) that will make learning to draw simple, engaging and rewarding. These toys will teach kids to create cartoons, animals, and more. All of these drawing toys are great for travel, waiting rooms, and even restaurants as they will keep kids focused and working hard for quite some time.
Please note: I am a participant of the Amazon Services Associates Program and have included “affiliate links” for all the toys. This means that when you click the pictures or links provided and make a purchase, I receive a small commission on the toy at no extra cost to you. You can read more about the Amazon Associates Program here.
1) Follow the Dots Drawing Book
Just as kids learn to form letters by tracing, they can learn to draw this way too. Tracing helps develop hand-eye coordination and pencil control that is needed for writing and drawing. This book is a double win, young kids practice fine motor skills and learn to draw real pictures at the same time. Tracing also helps build muscle memory and introduces young kids to the concepts of turning shapes into familiar pictures.
2) My First I Can Draw
I Can Draw is a book geared to younger kids who are past tracing, and are ready to draw basic shapes on their own. It provides step by step instructions on how to draw simple pictures in 3 easy steps. This book is great for teaching kids about directionality (up, down, left, right), spatial awareness, and following directions.
3) Magnetic Drawing Pad
This Magnetic drawing pad is an excellent way for younger kids to practice hand-eye coordination, shape and pattern recognition, and visual perception. Using a magnetic stylus is also helpful for building strength in the hand and promoting a tripod grasp.
4) Step by Step
This cool drawing toy comes with picture cards with simple step by step instructions that guide kids through the process of drawing different animals. This set also includes a dry erase board, a dry erase marker, and a cloth eraser. I have this set, and it’s a ton of fun!
5) How To Draw
This is another great book that teaches kids to draw a variety of common objects and animals. The steps make learning to draw easy, engaging, and rewarding.
6) How to Draw-Dry Erase Activity Book
This book shows how to draw objects in a unique and playful way. It’s great for beginners but can be fun for more experienced artists as well.
7) How to Draw Cute Stuff
This book is adorable! The only thing better than learning to draw is obviously learning to draw in a cute way.;)
8) How to Draw Funny Faces
Did you know that there are so many different ways to create faces? I didn’t, but this book shows you how. One extra line can change a whole facial expression. Super cool!
9) Cartooning for Kids
10) How to Draw 101 Animals
Learn to draw almost any animal with easy step by step instructions! Love the idea of this helpful book. Who knew drawing could be so easy?!
11 Learn to Draw Dinosaurs!
If you have dinosaur lovers at home, this book would be an excellent gift. Providing kids with activities that have preferred themes typically lead to more motivation and engagement.
12) Sequin Drawing
Okay, so maybe the most professional drawing will not happen here.;) But, this is an excellent tool to teach younger kids to draw simple shapes. Make vertical and horizontal lines, squares, triangles, and more. The sequin also provides a nice sensory and kinesthetic element to drawing which can help kids remember how to form these shapes.
13) The Drawing Book for Kids
This is another awesome book that teaches kids to draw a variety of interesting objects. Kids can then use all they learned to create their own unique pictures and designs.
14) How to Draw 101 Monsters
What better way to perfect a drawing technique than by drawing a whole bunch of wacky monsters?! if your kids are into monsters, this book is for you!
15) Spirograph
Spirograph allows kids to create spiraling designs and then turn them into creative pictures. This toy is great for developing hand-eye coordination, practicing pencil control, learning about patterns and symmetry, and encouraging creativity.
16) Interior Design Sketch Portfolio
This book is great for older kids who love interior design. It comes with stencil sheets, stickers, and more to help kids design their own rooms in the house.
17) Magna Tablet
Magna Tablet comes with a magnetic pen that attracts the metal balls to the top as kids “draw.” Kids can create their own pictures in this unique way or follow the designs on the cards provided. Magna Tablet is great for building hand strength and fine motor skills in younger kids as well as teaching to draw precise designs by counting the metal balls and following the patterns.
18) The Beginner Art Book For Kids
This book comes with simple project ideas and supplies lists to allow kids to try printmaking, sculpting, drawing, painting, and more.
19) Light-Up Tracing Pad
This toy allows kids to draw more complex pictures through simple tracing. The light-up technique makes it easier to see the lines which helps keep kids motivated and engaged in learning.