Tracing activity · Free printable

Tracing lines and pencil paths

A path gives a mark somewhere to go without turning it into a handwriting lesson. Explore a straight route, a bend and a wave at a comfortable pace. You can print the paths, follow them with a finger on screen beside an adult or draw a larger version on spare paper.

Print or play ↗See the worksheet

Created by RobPublished 8 October 20263–4 / 4–5 years, flexibly

Take a little peek6 items · Original illustrations

straight path

curve path

zigzag path

wave path

loop path

arch path

First activity preview shown. The PDF contains the tracing activity layout.

Inside the printable

First worksheet in the Tracing lines and pencil paths printable pack

First page shown. The download includes the complete activity and grown-up guidance.

What we’re exploring

Explore controlled movements in different directions while noticing a line’s changes in direction.

A little way to play

Choose a path that looks inviting. Put the printed sheet on a flat surface and leave plenty of elbow room.
Trace the route with a finger while describing it: “Across, then around the bend.”
Offer a thick crayon, pencil or washable marker suitable for your child. Model one short section if useful.
Pause after a path and decide together whether to try another, draw freely or finish.

Make it easier

Use the straight line or a large curve. Let an adult draw an extra-wide version and invite any mark that follows roughly the same direction.

Try a little more

Follow the route in the opposite direction, or draw a similar path beside it. Describe which route had the most changes of direction.

For the grown-up

Neatness and speed are not the purpose. Avoid forcing a hand preference or moving a child’s hand for them without their agreement. A child can take part by directing an adult instead.

Answers & naming help

The six routes are straight, curved, zigzag, wavy, looping and arched. There is no scored answer: the activity is following and discussing the path, with room for marks outside the outline.

straight path · curve path · zigzag path · wave path · loop path · arch path

How do I print this?

Choose your vocabulary and paper size, then download the PDF. Print at actual size or 100%. Use the low-ink option for outline activities; color-name cards still need their color to teach the word. Cut-and-stack mini-books are available in the flashcard maker.

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