Cartoon drawing is more than just a pastime – it’s a gateway to creativity, learning, and loads of fun! For kids, picking up a pencil and sketching their favourite cartoon characters or dreaming up new ones can be both entertaining and educational. Whether you’re a parent looking for a delightful activity to do with your children or an art enthusiast wanting to introduce kids to the world of drawing, this guide has you covered.

Below, you’ll discover the benefits of cartoon drawing, the basic tools needed, step-by-step instructions for creating simple cartoons, and exciting ways to make this activity a hit in your home. Plus, we’ve included some top resources to keep your kids inspired.

Why Kids Should Start Drawing Cartoons

Cartoon drawing is more than just doodling—it has real developmental benefits for children. Here’s how it helps:

• Boosts Cognitive Development

When kids draw, they activate areas in their brain related to problem-solving and critical thinking. They learn to plan visually, understand shapes, and interpret how objects look in space.

• Improves Fine Motor Skills

The act of holding a pencil and sketching lines is fantastic for developing fine motor coordination. Over time, children gain greater control over their hand and finger movements.

• Encourages Creativity

Drawing cartoons opens up boundless opportunities for imagination. Whether they’re inventing a wacky character or creating a storyline, kids learn to think outside the box.

• Provides Emotional Expression

Cartoons allow kids to express their feelings through art, which can be therapeutic and build confidence as they see their ideas come to life.

Essential Tools for Cartoon Drawing at Home

Getting started with cartoon drawing is easy. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Paper or Sketchbooks – Regular A4 paper works brilliantly, but a sketchbook keeps their creations tidy and organised.
2. Pencils – Opt for HB pencils for sketching as they provide a good balance between light and dark shading.
3. Erasers and Sharpeners – Mistakes are part of the process, so make sure your child has tools to fix their sketches.
4. Coloured Pencils or Markers – Add life to the cartoons with vibrant colours. Washable markers are a good idea for younger kids.
5. Ruler (Optional) – Great for learning how to draw straight edges or frames for comic strips.

Pro tip: Encourage kids to set up a ‘little creative corner’ with a dedicated table and all their drawing tools. A tidy, engaging space sparks inspiration.

Step-by-Step Cartoon Drawing Guide

Here’s how to draw a fun and simple cartoon character—perfect for beginners.

How to Draw a Cartoon Cat:

1. Start with the Head

Draw a large circle for the head. Add two small, triangular ears on top.

2. Sketch the Body

Below the circle, draw a smaller oval for the body.

3. Add Lively Features

Inside the head circle, sketch two big eyes, a tiny triangular nose, and a smiling mouth. Add whiskers for a finishing touch.

4. Draw Paws and Tail

Add four small ovals for the paws and a curved tail stretching upwards.

5. Bring It to Life

Colour your cat in – maybe a cheerful orange like a tabby or grey stripes like a classic cartoon cat.

This simple design is a great way to build confidence in aspiring artists!

Encourage Creativity Through These Tips

Want to inspire your kids to keep drawing? Try these ideas:

• Ask Simple Questions – “What’s your character’s name?” or “What kind of world would they live in?” These questions get kids thinking about storytelling.
• Create a Cartoon Scrapbook – Dedicate a book to their drawings, giving them a sense of accomplishment as they watch their collection grow.
• Show Their Work – Hang their favourites on the fridge or create a mini art gallery wall at home.

Turn It into a Family Activity

Drawing cartoons together can be a fantastic bonding experience. Why not organise an arty family evening? Here’s how:

1. Theme the Session – Decide on a theme, such as animals, superheroes, or space.
2. Set a Timer – Pick a short time for everyone to create their character.
3. Share Your Creations – At the end, take turns naming and describing your cartoon characters.

A bit of healthy competition can make it even more delightful! Reward the “Best Designed Character,” “Funniest Character,” or “Awesome Effort.”

Creativity Is Key to Growth

Cartoon drawing does more than fill an afternoon—it can spark lifelong creativity and inspire children to explore their artistic talents. Beyond the fun lines and goofy smiles, it provides invaluable lessons in patience, problem-solving, and self-expression.