Spring Break Fun: Disney Artists Share Easy Drawing Tips to Keep Kids Creative
Spring break is just around the corner, and if you’re a parent in NYC (or anywhere, really), you’re probably already thinking about how to keep the kids entertained and engaged in a fun and creative way. Instead of resorting to the usual movie marathons or hours of screen time, why not try something different? Let the kids tap into their artistic side with some expert tips from Disney artists that will keep them busy and inspired all break long.
Here are some awesome ideas to help your kids get their creativity flowing while they have fun drawing, sketching, and exploring digital art!
Psst… Check Out the Ultimate Guide to Spring Break in NYC 2025 (Over 65 Fun Ideas for Everyone!)
Turn Messy Projects into Digital Art
Remember how much fun it was to play with Play-Doh as a kid? Shaping characters and objects out of clay was a blast, but, let’s be honest, it was also messy. If you’re trying to keep things tidy this spring break, Ara Kermanikian, a Disney animator, has the perfect solution: go digital! Digital sculpting tools like the ZBrush Core Mini let kids create 3D shapes on a tablet, just like they would with Play-Doh, but without the mess. They can even print their creations in 3D. It’s a great way to introduce kids to the world of digital art and expand their creative horizons.
Show Real Interest in Their Art
If you want to inspire your kids to keep creating, show them that you care about their art! Quincy Vadan, a 3D modeler who’s worked on countless projects, says that asking questions like “How did you make that?” or “What inspired you?” can really spark their imagination. Parents shouldn’t be afraid to get involved, either. Grab a sketchbook and try drawing alongside your kids. Doing so shows them that their creativity matters and that you value their artistic journey. If they’re into digital art, you might also want to stock up on art supplies like markers, crayons, paint, or a Wacom tablet. Sometimes, all it takes is new materials to get the ideas flowing.
Try New Experiences to Spark Creativity
Mike Morris, who’s worked on The Simpsons and other Disney projects, says that kids need fresh experiences to fuel their creativity. Take them to a new place or try something they’ve never done before, like a trip to a new zoo, a cooking class, or even just a walk in the park. When exposed to new things, kids are more likely to translate those experiences into their artwork. Plus, it’s a great way to make lasting memories during spring break.
Turn Up the Music and Get Creative Together
Sometimes, the best way to get into a creative zone is with music. Ethan Castillo, a sketch card artist who’s worked on Spider-Man and other popular sets, says that music can help set the mood for art. Put together a playlist of your kids’ favorite songs, and let the creativity flow. Even better, join in on the fun. Draw alongside them or create something together. More often than not, it’ll turn into a fun bonding experience that they’ll remember.
Tips for Kids to Find Their Own Artistic Voice
Spring break is the perfect time for kids to explore their own unique artistic style and develop their own creative voice. Here are some tips to help them unleash their imagination and find their artistic flow:
Develop Your Own Style, Says Quincy Vadan
Quincy encourages kids to embrace their own version of the world. Instead of just copying characters from TV or movies, let your child experiment with redesigning their favorite characters in their own style. Maybe they think Spider-Man should have wings or that their favorite toy would look cooler as a dinosaur … nothing is off-limits! The goal is to let their imagination run wild and have fun with it.
Draw Inspiration from the World Around You, Says Ethan Castillo
Don’t be afraid to use things around you for inspiration! Ethan says that referencing comics, toys, books, or even nature is a great way to spark new ideas. The more they draw what they love, the faster they’ll develop their own style. If your kid loves superheroes, cartoons, or animals, they should feel free to draw those things over and over until they perfect their version of them.
Psst… Check Out Budget-Friendly Spring Break Spots in NYC for Kids and Families
