Give the child paper and a crayon.
If the child does not spontaneously mark on the paper, demonstrate.
See if the child understands the function of the marker and tries to use it. If the child does mark in imitation, this may indicate unfamiliarity with marking, or that this is an emerging skill.
Parents often do not allow their child access to writing tools because the child may mouth them or mark on walls or furniture. Using a marker introduces tool use, drawing, and cause-and effect. Supervised use of a marker encourages a new type of exploration.
 North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, 2015
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