Skill· 12mo–2y· 2 min
First Marks
Parent offers crayons or finger paint and the agent coaches the parent to observe toddler's first mark-making — scribbles, dots, lines — as expressions of early aesthetic creativity and motor control.
Free to do together whenever you like.
What you'll need
Large paper taped to table or floor. Thick crayons or washable finger paint. Smock or old clothes. Parent observes without directing.
How it works
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneScribbles or makes marksBody· 12mo–22mo· core
- MilestoneShows interest in making marksMind· 10mo–18mo· stretch· Step 1
- MilestonePalmar grasp on writing toolBody· 10mo–22mo· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneMakes connections between their movement and the marks they make.Body· 8mo–20mo· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneExpresses feelings through words or actionsHeart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneSeeks out others to share experiences.Heart· 14mo–2.2y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneWelcomes and values praise for what they have done.Heart· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 3
Visual example
Coming soon