Children in which age range are known to draw simple strokes with a pencil?

Children ages 2 to 4 are in the early stages of fine motor skill development. During this period, they begin to develop the ability to grasp tools such as crayons and pencils, and they start producing simple strokes as a form of mark-making. This is foundational for more complex drawing and writing skills that will develop later. Their hand-eye coordination is still developing, but by the end of this age range, many children can create basic shapes and lines, showcasing their emerging ability to control the pencil and express themselves through drawing.

In contrast, older age ranges, such as 5 to 8 years, generally involve more advanced drawing techniques and the ability to create more detailed images. Ages 9 to 11 usually see children refining their skills further, moving towards more complex compositions. Finally, ages 12 to 14 typically focus on advanced artistic techniques and personal expression, indicating that simple strokes are a skill that is primarily built during the early years of 2 to 4.