Cover a table or space on the floor with a large sheet of paper. Tape the paper to the table edges. Craft paper, shipping paper, freezer paper or the back of wrapping paper works well for this project, but you can also use paper grocery bags you have cut open and taped down. Using some tape or a rubber band, attach a marker or crayon to a toy car so the tip makes a mark on the paper when the car moves. Tape different colors to other cars, and race them or tape multiple colors to one car to create interesting designs. Use this paper to wrap presents for the holidays, which will give the child a great sense of pride.
Sit down with your toddler. Draw a line on a piece of paper with a crayon, and ask him which color you've used. Have him try to continue the line in a color of his choosing, and ask him to identify the color. Once he has mastered lines, have him attempt to trace and complete the basic shapes: circle, square and triangle. Ask him to identify each shape and color as you go.
Draw several circles or squares on pieces of paper, and have your child add to the shapes. You may direct her by asking her to draw a scene from a favorite book or create a picture of her pets, siblings or friends. Always ask the child to tell you all about her picture. It may look like mindless scribble to you, but remember that her artwork has significance and meaning to her. Write down your child's explanation to reference later. You may be surprised to find that she remembers exactly what she drew.
This drawing game works well with a group of toddlers, but you can also adapt it easily to play with your child. Draw any shape on a piece of paper, and instruct him to add something to it. Pass this paper around the group a few times, having each child add his own piece. Once you or the children have decided the drawing is complete, ask them to come up with a story about the creature or scene they have created. Have them name and talk about the scene; encourage and praise their creativity.