Doodle Art Lesson

Click here for a step by step Doodle Art lesson that your students will love! Perfect to sub plans or Elementary Art Centers, doodling is always a hit with kids!

What is Doodle art? Doodle art is a playful, free from style of drawing where simple and spontaneous lines, shapes and images come together without a specific plan. This can include drawing patterns, shapes, creatures or abstract forms.

Why is Doodling so darn fun? 

Doodling gives freedom to explore-- with no strict rules or expectations, kids can let their imaginations run wild. It also helps us to relax-- the repetitive nature of doodling is calming and can reduce stress, and who doesn't need to burn off a little stress these days?

How to Doodle with Kids!

-First, go through the slideshow and Mr. Doodle videos.  

-Do a demonstration, this is the fun part!

Step 1) Draw 3 Simple Images Close Together

Kids have the freedom to interpret what "simple" means. This initial step encourages idea generation and decision-making, sparking their imagination and setting the tone for creative flow.

Step 2) Draw 3 More Images Squeezed into the Empty Spaces

Adding more images in the tight spaces requires kids to experiment with placement, scale and spatial awareness. This step challenges them to adapt and think about composition in an open-ended way, enhancing their problem-solving skills.

Step 3) Fill the Rest of the Spaces with Squiggles and Shapes

This final step promotes relaxation and freedom, as they can add whatever comes to mind. This openness builds confidence and teaches them to trust their creative instincts.

Taking it further:

Some students chose to color in their doodles, some wanted to leave them black and white. If you have various thicknesses of markers, that would work well (like fine and super fine tip Sharpies).  It does help to have a specific space in which to doodle, I made worksheets with dresses, sunglasses, sneakers and more that my students really enjoyed using.  You can find them here.