What Reviewers Say

Reviewers consistently praise Draw Write Now for its ability to seamlessly blend fine motor skill development with elementary subject matter. Sources like Cathy Duffy and Rainbow Resource highlight the effective step-by-step drawing methodology using simple geometric shapes, which builds confidence in artistic ability. While The Homeschool Mom contributors often recommend it for reluctant writers who need a creative incentive, some trade-offs exist. Users on the Well-Trained Mind forums note that the manuscript style may not align with all handwriting programs and the content is strictly supplemental rather than a full curriculum. Common concerns involve the simplicity of the sentences for older students in the grade range, but the consensus remains that it is an excellent tool for 'gentle' schooling and multi-level teaching.

How It Works

A typical session involves a child sitting at the table with a thematic book from the series and a piece of paper, often split between a drawing space and primary-ruled lines. The parent guides the child through the illustrated drawing steps, showing how basic geometric shapes like circles and ovals gradually transform into an animal, vehicle, or historical figure. Once the drawing is finished and colored, the child copies a few sentences of related text provided in the book to practice their handwriting. Each lesson is designed to be completed in a single 20-to-30-minute sitting using simple materials like paper, pencils, and colored pencils.

Switching to This?

Because this is a supplemental program, the publisher does not offer formal placement tests or diagnostics. Most families choose a starting point based on the child's interest or the historical era they are currently studying, as the books do not have to be completed in numerical order. It is common for families to start mid-year whenever a child needs extra fine motor practice or a break from more rigid writing assignments. If you are switching from a formal handwriting program, treat this as a way to apply skills in a creative context rather than a replacement for foundational letter-formation instruction.

Curriculum Details

Price

$14 - $89

Individual books are typically $14.99 each; the complete 8-book boxed set retails around $84.99-$89.99.

Grades

K - 4

Available As

Print

Coverage

Single subject

Subjects

Art

---

Pacing

Self-paced

Parent Time

5-20 min/day

Parent Involvement

None

Student Independence

Semi-independent

---

Academic Level

Grade level

Worldview

Neutral

Teach Multiple Ages

Yes

Engaging for Reluctant Learners

Yes

Videos

Reviews We Consulted

Updated: March 2026

How This Compares

Compared to Artistic Pursuits, which offers a comprehensive art history and technique curriculum using various media, Draw Write Now is a simpler, pencil-based tool focused on the intersection of drawing and handwriting. When weighed against Handwriting Without Tears, this program lacks the specific therapeutic letter-formation cues, serving instead as a 'dessert' activity where students practice the neatness of their copywork. Parents often compare it to Ed Emberley’s drawing books, but while Emberley is focused purely on the joy of sketching, Draw Write Now includes educational facts and literacy practice. Unlike Draw the World, which is a specialized tool for learning geography through map-making, this series covers a broader range of elementary topics like habitats and history. Finally, for parents of reluctant writers choosing between this and Writing with Ease, Draw Write Now offers a much more visual and low-pressure incentive to get students comfortable with a pencil.

Getting Started