The following is a brief overview of the developmental stages of children's art and creativity. Please keep in mind that the ages given are general guidelines and that children will enter and leave each stage at their own pace.

Scribbling stage, approximately 2 to 4 years

Children are amazed at their ability to make marks.

They have just realized that they can interact with and affect their environment.

Much time is spent practicing motor skills.

Children draw circles first, then squares and other geometric shapes.

Children begin trying to recreate their world. They may want to point to and name parts of their drawings.

Pre-schematic stage, late preschool to approximately age 7

First attempts are made to represent people or objects. Efforts are recognizable to adults.

Children show a fascination with the wide variety of colors.

Obvious connections between different pieces of the drawing.

Signs of approval from teachers and peers are important.

Easily discouraged and fatigued.

Active, hands-on, eager to learn, self-centered.

Highly imaginative yet tend to focus on one idea at a time.

Search for ways to represent their ideas.