Before we speak about the topic, let us understand the scenario. It was the year 2021, the year when all of us were struggling with COVID and the aftereffects of recovery. As a mother to a vibrant and creative 5-year-old, I sometimes look back and find myself reflecting on the milestones of her creative journey. One question that often comes up in conversations with fellow parents is “At what age did your child start painting?” For us, the answer lies in the early days of my kid’s toddlerhood.

My kid was just 1.5 years old when she first touched the texture of Dabble’s fingerpaints with her tiny hands. It was during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when the world had slowed down, and I was looking for meaningful ways to engage her at home. At the time, I wasn’t aiming to nurture an artist. I was simply hoping to spark curiosity and offer her a new sensory experience. Little did I know that those first exchanges with paint would become a gateway to her blossoming creativity.

Why Start Early?

Introducing painting at a young age has had a profound impact on my daughter’s growing years. By starting early, she’s been able to explore:

1. Sensory Development: My kid enjoyed splashing colours onto the floor, herself, and papers. Playing with colours offered a rich sensory experience. This engaged her tactile sense as she felt the paint and her visual sense by observing colours and patterns

2. Self-Expression: Even before she could fully articulate her thoughts in words, colouring became her voice. Those early scribbles carried her emotions, her imagination, and sometimes, her frustrations. There was an incident where she scribbled her version of how she felt when we as parents were shouting at her for maybe not eating food or making a mess and that picture became my screensaver for some time so that I don’t repeat this action.

3. Confidence and Joy: Watching her create something unique brought immense joy to both of us. Each painting—no matter how abstract or messy—was celebrated, boosting her confidence.

4. Sense of Independence: This took some time, but from the age of 4 years and even now, colouring/painting is my kid’s safe and independent space where we (parents) do not need to watch or guide her. She can just do this on her own.

How to Introduce Painting to Young Kids

If you’re considering introducing painting to your little one, here are a few tips based on my experience:

● Start Simple: Use non-toxic, washable paints and sturdy brushes like Dabble Playart products. Finger painting is a fantastic way to begin!

● Create a Safe Space: Designate an area for painting that you don’t mind getting messy. A simple mat or newspaper can work wonders. We have created one full shelf in her room with colours, brushes, and drawing books and dedicated one wall with a big white paper where she explores and draws whatever she feels like, though the wall has become a bit messy but looking at her exploring colours and shapes on a Saturday’s morning is worth the mess.

● Let Them Explore: Don’t worry about structure or outcomes. Allow them to explore freely and enjoy the process.

● Celebrate Their Efforts: Display their artwork—on the fridge, the wall, or even in a scrapbook. This reinforces their sense of accomplishment.

Looking Back 

As I look back, I’m grateful for those early painting sessions with my daughter. They weren’t just about creating art; they were about building memories, nurturing her creativity, and watching her grow into her person. Now, at 5 years old, her artwork tells stories, captures emotions, and fills our home with vibrant colours.

So, when did your child start painting?
Whether it’s at 1.5 years or 5 years, remember that every stroke, every splash of colour, and every moment spent painting is a step into a world of endless creativity and discovery. Embrace it and enjoy the journey!

Contributed By - Priyanka Thapliyal, Writer and podcaster blending creativity and storytelling