Art for Kids: Drawing — The Only Drawing Book You'll Ever Need

Art for Kids: Drawing by Kathryn Temple is a comprehensive and beautifully produced drawing instruction book designed specifically for young artists. Despite being written for kids, the book treats its readers as serious artists, providing genuine instruction in drawing techniques that will serve them for a lifetime. The high-quality production with thick, glossy pages and full-color illustrations throughout makes this book a pleasure to use.

Temple covers the fundamental skills every aspiring artist needs, including line drawing, shading, perspective, proportion, and composition. The book is organized into logical chapters that build on each other, starting with basic techniques and progressing to more complex subjects. Students learn to draw a wide range of subjects including animals, people, landscapes, and still life objects.

Each lesson includes clear step-by-step demonstrations, tips from professional artists, and plenty of space for practice. Temple's writing style is encouraging without being condescending, striking the perfect balance between instruction and inspiration. The book emphasizes that drawing is a learnable skill, not just an inborn talent, and provides the structured practice needed to develop that skill.

For homeschooling families, Art for Kids: Drawing works beautifully as either a standalone art curriculum or a supplement to other programs. The self-directed format allows students to work independently, making it ideal for families with multiple children at different levels. The comprehensive coverage means students can return to the book again and again as their skills develop.

Published by Lark Books, this 112-page guide has become a staple in homeschool art education. It is frequently recommended alongside programs like Artistic Pursuits and Drawing with Children as one of the best resources for developing genuine drawing skills in children ages 8 and up. The accessible, professional approach makes it equally valuable for adult beginners looking to develop their drawing abilities.