Skip to the content
Peabody ParentsTalk, play, read and grow, from day one

When do toddlers scribble?

The CDC's milestone checklist lists “Scribbles” by 18 months. By 3 years it lists “Draws a circle, when you show him how.” Most children (75% or more) do these by those ages, and many sooner. A chunky crayon and a big sheet of paper are all it takes. If you're worried, talk with your pediatrician.

Checked October 29, 2026.

What the CDC's checklists say

Milestones from the CDC's “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” checklists, word for word
ByThe CDC's milestoneMonth page
18 monthsScribblesYour toddler at 18 months
3 yearsDraws a circle, when you show him howYour child at 3 years

Each row is from the CDC's checklist for that age (18 months, 3 years), checked October 29, 2026.

What “by 18 months” means

Developmental milestones are things most children (75% or more) can do by a certain age. The CDC puts each milestone at the age by which at least 75% of children would be expected to do it, so that even one missing milestone leads to a conversation with the doctor instead of “wait and see”. So “by 18 months” isn't an average. Many children do it sooner, and the checklists don't list everything a child learns.

What it can look like

Marks and lines in every direction, then round-and-round scribbles, then a circle when you show how.

What helps

  • Tape a big sheet of paper to the table and offer one chunky crayon. Stay with them.
  • Draw next to your child and talk about it: "Round and round!"
  • Try chalk on the sidewalk, or a finger in sand.

Talk to your pediatrician if…

Your child isn't doing this by 18 months, the age on the CDC's list, has lost a skill they once had, or you're worried for any reason.

You know your child best. Don't wait. If your child is not meeting one or more milestones, has lost skills he or she once had, or you have other concerns, act early. Talk with your child's doctor, share your concerns, and ask about developmental screening.

If you or the doctor are still concerned, the CDC says to ask for a referral to a specialist, and to call your state's early intervention program (find the number on the CDC's list). You do not need to wait for a doctor's referral or a medical diagnosis to make this call. If your child is younger than 3 years old, contact your local early intervention system.

More from the CDC: Concerned about your child's development? If your child seems unwell, call your pediatrician, or 911 in an emergency.

Sources