Just a scribble? Why your toddler’s early marks are important and three ways to encourage them

Your toddler might be eager to draw, or be more interested in making lines and circles with their finger or a stick in soap, food or mud. When you’re given a piece of paper with their various colourful lines and squiggles you might find it hard to be enthusiastic – but these early marks are an important step towards writing and drawing.  

Why are first marks important?  

Your toddler is starting to link their movements with the marks that they make 

Just like when they were developing their skills in other movements, they will gain more control and skill with practice. 

Your toddler is recognising the significance of marks, so drawing and writing in the world around them 

They might have noticed you or another adult writing a card or a list or they might understand that you like it when they draw you a picture.  

Your toddler is beginning to realise that the marks they make can represent something 

This is an important step in their development. They will begin to make marks and tell you that these are a particular thing; a good tip now is not to say too much but let your child tell you about the marks they have made. Try to avoid guessing what they’ve drawn. 

Things to think about... 

• Your toddler might not tell you that the marks that they have made are a particular thing every time. 
• Let your toddler see you writing and drawing and encourage them to make marks in ways and places that interest them. 
• Remember at this point bigger is often better – your child is probably using their whole arm when they make marks, so give them lots of room.  

Reference: 

Baghban, M (2007) ‘Scribbles, labels, and stories. The role of drawing in the development of writing’. Young children 62(1) pp20-26.