Drawing with Children: A Creative Method for Adult Beginners, Too

Drawing with Children by Mona Brookes is a groundbreaking art instruction book that has transformed how parents and teachers approach drawing education. Based on the acclaimed Monart Method, this book provides a structured yet creative approach to teaching children (and adults) how to draw by breaking down visual elements into five basic shapes that form the building blocks of all drawing.

The Monart Method begins with teaching students to identify and reproduce five elements of shape: dots, circles, straight lines, curved lines, and angles. By learning to see the world through these fundamental building blocks, even very young children can create surprisingly accurate and detailed drawings. The method builds confidence quickly because students experience immediate success rather than frustration.

Brookes organizes the book into progressive lessons that move from simple flat drawings to complex three-dimensional still lifes and even portrait drawing. Each lesson includes step-by-step instructions, sample drawings at various skill levels, and tips for encouraging creative expression while building technical skill. The book also addresses common challenges like perfectionism and drawing anxiety.

What makes this book particularly valuable for homeschooling families is its flexibility. Lessons can be adapted for children as young as three or four, yet the techniques are sophisticated enough to challenge older students and adult beginners. Many Classical Conversations and Charlotte Mason homeschool programs recommend Drawing with Children as their primary art curriculum.

The book includes reproducible worksheets, warm-up exercises, and a wealth of practical advice for creating an encouraging drawing environment. Whether you are an experienced artist or have never picked up a pencil, Brookes provides the tools and confidence to guide your children through meaningful art education that develops both observation skills and creative expression.