Why Draw the Same Scene Twice works

Draw the Same Scene Twice is designed to practice creative choice and visible transformation through a sequence that begins when the child is asked to draw the scene once without overworking detail. Draw the same simple scene twice so the child can compare choices rather than trying to make a perfect copy. The opening action leads directly into the moment when the child is asked to start the second version with the same main objects.

Set up — Draw the scene once without overworking detail

Prepare crayons before the child is asked to draw the scene once without overworking detail. Keep the space simple enough that the child can move from draw the scene once without overworking detail to start the second version with the same main objects without rearranging everything. Use age-appropriate art materials and supervise cutting, small parts, or messy media as needed while the child works through the first instruction to draw the scene once without overworking detail.

Step 2 — Start the second version with the same main objects

One careful attempt to start the second version with the same main objects is enough at this stage. Before the child tries to deliberately change one feature such as weather, time or viewpoint, ask them to show or describe what differed from when they had to draw the scene once without overworking detail.

Step 3 — Deliberately change one feature such as weather, time or viewpoint

Use the result of asking the child to deliberately change one feature such as weather, time or viewpoint as a clue for the next decision. Do not move on to keep at least two elements consistent between versions until this step has a clear purpose.

Step 4 — Keep at least two elements consistent between versions

Ask the child to keep at least two elements consistent between versions. Compare what happens with the earlier step to deliberately change one feature such as weather, time or viewpoint, then continue by asking them to compare the two drawings and identify which change altered the story most once the difference is clear.

Step 5 — Compare the two drawings and identify which change altered the story most

Let the child compare the two drawings and identify which change altered the story most and treat the result as information rather than simple repetition. If it is unclear, repeat that action before asking them to compare the two drawings and identify which change altered the story most.

What to notice before Compare the two drawings and identify which change…

Use the attempt to deliberately change one feature such as weather, time or viewpoint as the observation point. If the child understands why they are next asked to keep at least two elements consistent between versions, the final request to compare the two drawings and identify which change altered the story most should feel connected.

Make Deliberately change one feature such as weather,… easier or harder

A shorter version can finish after the child has tried to deliberately change one feature such as weather, time or viewpoint, using this support: limit the materials and make one visual choice at a time. An advanced version can continue to compare the two drawings and identify which change altered the story most after you add one constraint about shape, placement, pattern, or storytelling.

Finish after Compare the two drawings and identify which change…

Compare the two drawings and identify which change altered the story most. Stop there while the rule and result are still easy to remember. Browse the activity search for a different mechanic, or use the activity generator.