Many kids treat tracing like a race. The faster they go, the sooner they get to color. But speed pulls the line off the dots, and then the result is frustrating. Teaching kids to slow down is one of the most helpful things you can do for their tracing, and it can be fun.
Why speed causes wobbles
At high speed, the eyes cannot keep up with the hand, so there is no time to steer. Slow movements give the brain time to check where the line is going and adjust. This is true for adults too; try signing your name very fast and very slowly.
Slow-motion games
Snail race
The slowest tracer wins. Silly, and very effective.
Animal speeds
Call out animal names: "Turtle speed!" "Sloth speed!" "Cheetah speed!" Trace at that speed. Then point out which speed gave the best line.
Slow-motion voice
Talk in a slow-motion voice while tracing. It slows everyone down.
Hold your breath (just kidding)
Instead, breathe slowly while tracing: one breath per section. See color and breathe.
Practical tips
Look ahead
Teach kids to look at the next dot, not the crayon tip. This gives their brain time to plan.
Short sections
Trace one part, like a dinosaur’s tail, then pause. Short sections are easier to control than one long line.
Stop at corners
Pause at every corner. A pause is a chance to reset.
Use the right tool
A slightly sticky crayon or pencil naturally slows the hand more than a slippery marker.
Choose clear, simple shapes
Big, clear outlines are easier to follow slowly. Trace Then Color: Baby Animals has simple, gentle shapes for beginners. Dinosaurs offer long curves and spiky backs that reward careful tracing: Trace Then Color: Cartoon Dinosaurs.
Praise slowness
"You traced that curve so carefully." "I noticed you slowed down at the corner." What gets noticed gets repeated.
Do not lecture
Constant "slow down!" reminders feel like nagging. Games and praise work better than instructions.
When kids rush everything
Some children rush because they want to get to the fun part (coloring) or because they find focusing hard. It can help to:
- Let them color a little first, then trace
- Use a timer to set a minimum time per section
- Choose pages they are excited about
See also coloring tips for kids with ADHD.
Questions parents ask
Is it OK if my child traces fast?
If their lines are on the dots and they are happy, yes. Speed only matters when it causes frustration.
How slow is too slow?
If tracing becomes boring or tiring, speed up a little. The goal is comfortable control.
Does slowing down help with handwriting?
Yes. Kids who can control their speed tend to form letters more neatly.
About Kevin Coulston
Kevin Coulston is a cartoonist and member of the National Cartoonists Society who has written and illustrated more than 100 drawing, tracing and coloring books for kids, including the Trace Then Color series. Meet Kevin or browse all his books on FirstArtBooks.com.
