As smart devices become more available most things can now be done digitally. Coloring is no exception to this. Digital coloring has become more prevalent, catching up with the traditional paper and paint method. But nonetheless coloring is still a great way kids can explore their creativity and improve their skills and focus. The digital mediums have only added options to choose from. Kids can incorporate both in tandem to take advantage of the both digital and traditional coloring methods.
Even though both methods perform the same task they have unique benefits and drawbacks. Some parents opt for the digital method for their children due to its accessibility while others want their kids to experience the whole process in the old way. Not to mention that kids also have their own preferences. Here we will discuss in detail about digital and paper coloring.
Upsides of Paper Coloring
Motor Skill Development
In the traditional method of color kids have to use papers and coloring materials. They have to hold on to coloring pencils, coloring pens, crayons, paints etc. Then they have to use them on paper to complete the art and the coloring process. This process enables kids to develop their hand to eye coordination. Also kids learn to grab and hold coloring equipment which develops their grip strength and have fine control over their finger movement.
Creativity
In traditional coloring kids are doing practical things. They learn to mix various colors and they can experiment with them. By mixing coloring they can create patterns using their imaginations. The freedom to maneuver gives them the ability to be more creative.
Less Screen Time
Kids get to explore and feel the papers and materials with their fingers rather than staring at a screen. This helps in bonding with their family members. So kids learn to interact and socialize which improves their social skills.
No Electronic Device Needed
Traditional coloring supplies don’t include electronic devices. So parents don’t need to spend too much money on an electronic device. There is no need to buy apps for that electronic device either. They can just get affordable papers and coloring materials for their kids.
Tangible Art Works
Kids can create something physical with the traditional coloring method. They can showcase this artwork as an accomplishment. By framing it and hanging it they can draw inspiration from what they did and what can be possible.
Downsides of Paper Coloring
Messy
Kids can create a mess using the coloring materials such as crayons, coloring pens, markers, pencils and paints. These coloring crayons and pencils can break. The color of pens and markers can run out. Kids can also create a pile of stained papers, creating wastes in the process.
Limited Colors
It’s hard to find various shades of colors in pens, pencils and crayons. Kids have to use the same colors over and over, limiting their exploration.
Permanent Mistakes
It’s hard to erase color if a kid has already painted. Even simple mistakes are not easy to fix when it comes to traditional coloring.
Upsides of Digital Coloring
Mess Free
Digital coloring requires just electronic devices. Kids can just use tablets to draw. They can also use a stylus for precision. As kids don’t have to use coloring materials such as crayons, pens and pencils they don’t create a mess. There is also no worry of cleaning up later.
Wide Range of Tools and Colors
Digital apps offer a lot of tools for coloring. There are various kinds of paint brushes available to create various types of patterns and colors. Kids can create gradients and textures with the help of various tools. As a result they can create something that is not possible in traditional coloring.
Fix Mistakes
It’s easy to fix any mistakes with electronic devices. You can simply press the undo button to remove the steps previously done. This allows kids to create something flawless. They will explore their imagination without worrying about making mistakes.
Convenience
Kids can use digital devices anywhere. They can take them on trips or anywhere they are going. These devices are easy to carry and use as they are portable unlike the traditional papers and coloring materials.
Interactive features
There are many apps that feature story telling, animations and music. This helps kids set in a mood to be more creative as it becomes more engaging to kids.
Downsides of Digital Coloring
Screen Time
Kids have to stare at screens for a longer time. This promotes a sedentary lifestyle which is not good for health. If screen time is not maintained it can lead to future health complications.
Lacks Tactile Experience
Children who use digital devices for coloring miss out on the true experience of holding a coloring material such as crayon, coloring pencils and pens. This is important as they get to use their hands and eyes more precisely on papers.
Costly Devices and Apps
Even though you don’t need the usual supplies like the traditional coloring, the devices and apps are expensive. Some apps require in-app purchases to unlock it fully.
What do Kids Prefer?
In recent times digital devices have gained popularity among kids, including when it comes to coloring. A study by Pew Research found that the majority of children aged 3 to 6 prefer devices such as tablets and smartphones for coloring. It’s a huge shift towards moving away from the papers as kids engage more with digital devices. Still around 30% of children prefer the traditional methods according to various studies.
There’s no doubt that the digital age has a profound impact on kids’ pastime activities. Kids are now more interested in spending time on devices. They get to explore all the digital devices that they have to offer. But parents should also introduce them to the traditional method. Combining both methods can lead to the best development for a child.
