30 to 36 Months

Your emerging artist. Your child now likely has the hand, finger, and wrist coordination to hold a crayon more in the manner an adult does. Rather than gripping it with his whole hand, he positions it with his fingers to get more control. Once he reaches this motor milestone, he can create vertical lines and circles, instead of random squiggles. And you’ll get a glimpse at how your child sees his world—through his drawings.

References:

“Caring for Your Baby and Young Child, Birth to Age 5 (5th Ed)” by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

“The Wonder Years: Helping Your Baby and Young Child Successfully Negotiate the Major Developmental Milestones” by the American Academy of Pediatrics.