The personality test by drawing

What if your child’s doodles were actually a window into their soul? Prepare to be amazed as we reveal how simple sketches can reveal a wealth of information about your little one’s unique worldview.

Have you ever looked closely at the scribbles and doodles on your child’s drawing pad? It turns out these seemingly random strokes can offer a fascinating glimpse into their inner world.

One of the most popular psychological tools is the “House-Person-Tree” drawing test, which involves asking children to draw these three objects.

Children drawing on paper | Source: Pexels

By analyzing the details of the drawings, you can gain valuable insights into your children’s emotions, self-esteem, and even their relationships with others.

Imagine being able to understand your child’s fears, aspirations, and dreams just by looking at how they draw a tree or the size of their chimney. As a parent, this knowledge is like a secret superpower, allowing you to connect with your little one on a whole new level.

A woman hugging her daughter | Source: Pexels

But that’s not all! This test isn’t just about uncovering hidden meanings. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to start conversations about feelings, boost creativity, and reassure your child that you’re always there to listen and support them.

So, let’s explore the fascinating world of child psychology through their artwork.

1. Prepare the personality test by drawing

Step 1: Prepare the ground

First and foremost, you need to create a quiet and cozy corner for your budding artist.

A table with drawing materials in a child’s room | Source: Midjourney

Imagine you’re setting up a mini studio where creativity can flow freely. Choose a quiet spot, away from distractions like smartphones, tablets, and televisions. You need to provide your child with a peaceful space where their imagination can flourish.

Step 2: Gather the tools

Next, gather your child’s favorite art supplies. Whether it’s their favorite colored pencils, regular crayons, or colored markers, make sure you offer them a wide variety of options.

Colored pencils | Source: Unsplash

Don’t forget to take a sheet of white paper (or three, if you prefer). You have two options:

1. The Three-Canvas Approach: Give your child a separate sheet of paper for each masterpiece. One for the house, one for the tree, and one for the person.
2. The all-in-one gallery: Choose a single sheet where all three creations can coexist in harmony.

Step 3: The magic formula

A child sitting with drawing materials | Source: Midjourney

Once the supplies are ready, it’s time to explain to your child what to do.

1. Ask him to draw a house.
2. Then ask him to draw a tree.
3. Finally, ask him to draw a person.

Remember, we’re not trying to turn your child into the next Picasso. Encourage them to draw however they like. They can even draw stick figures!

Beauty lies in the details and the story they tell, not in artistic perfection.

Step 4: The Time Limit

A woman pointing at a clock in her hand | Source: Freepik

The next step is to set a reasonable length of time for the test. About 10 minutes per object should be enough, but you can increase it by a few minutes if you think your little one needs more time. This helps keep things fun and spontaneous without feeling rushed.

Here’s the golden rule: Resist the urge to help or guide their drawings. This is their time to express themselves freely. Your job is to be the audience that supports them, not the art director.

A woman watching her child draw | Source: Pexels

Pro tip: Make this activity fun and relaxed. You can even join your child and draw your own pictures alongside them (on a separate sheet of paper, of course). This can help your child feel more comfortable and enjoy the process.

2. Evaluate the results

Once the masterpieces are complete, it’s time for you to put on your detective hat. Observe carefully and curiously what you see.

Be careful! If the house doesn’t have doors, it means they might want you to talk to them more often.

A woman looks at a piece of paper | Source: Midjourney

Want to know more? Let’s evaluate each item one by one.

1. The house: Home Sweet Home?

Imagine your home as a storybook about your family life. What story does your child tell?

• Size matters : Is the house too big? Or does it feel like a cozy cottage? A large house often signifies security and pride in family life. On the other hand, a smaller dwelling may suggest that your child feels neglected or insecure at home. If the house isn’t too big, it might be time for extra cuddles and a frank conversation.

A child draws a house | Source: Pexels

• Windows to the Soul: Large, open windows can represent openness and good communication at home. Smaller or closed windows can indicate a desire for privacy or difficulty expressing feelings. They can indicate whether your child is eager to spend a little more time with family.
• The Door Dilemma: A large, welcoming door suggests that your child sees home as an open and welcoming place. No door? They may feel a little left out. Why not plan a special “family” day?

A drawing of a house | Source: Midjourney

• Roof and Chimney: Do you see a well-defined roof with a smoking chimney? This means your child likely feels protected and is happy to have you by their side. If the roof appears fragile or the house has no roof, this may suggest vulnerability. They may need further reassurance of your love and protection.

2. The tree: rooted in feelings

The tree is a symbol of your child’s emotional world and growth. Let’s see what each element of the tree reveals about your child’s personality.

Drawing of a Christmas tree | Source: Pexels

• Strong core : A strong core suggests inner strength. A thin core? Your child might need some emotional support. Why not share stories about times you’ve overcome challenges?
• Abundant Branches : Did your child draw many healthy, full-blown branches? This means they are curious and eager to explore new things. You could entertain them with new science experiments or an interesting book they’ve never read before. Similarly, sparse or drooping branches can indicate sadness or a lack of energy. This may suggest your little one needs a little encouragement.

A sketch of a tree with many branches | Source: Midjourney

• Leaves of Life : A tree full of green leaves can symbolize happiness and personal growth. This may suggest that your child feels blessed to have you as a parent because you support them in every way possible. However, don’t worry too much if you see bare branches. Your child may not be happy at the moment. Just talk to them about it and make sure they are honest in sharing their thoughts.

Drawing of a tree with green leaves | Source: Midjourney

• Root Revelations : Visible roots often indicate a sense of stability and strong connections. In contrast, absent roots can suggest a sense of disconnection. If you don’t see any roots, it might be a good idea to establish comforting routines and traditions to help your child feel more secure and connected to their environment.

3. The person: Mirror, mirror on the wall

This figure is like a magic mirror, reflecting how your child sees themselves or someone important to them.

A girl looking at herself in the mirror | Source: Pexels

• Size and space : Did your child draw a large figure in the center of the scene? Such figures often indicate confidence and assertiveness. Your child may feel satisfied and happy with themselves. On the other hand, if your child drew a smaller figure or drew it in a corner of the paper, it may suggest low self-esteem. Boost your child’s confidence by praising them and offering activities that highlight their strengths.

A sketch of a person | Source: Midjourney

• Face first : What does the person’s face look like? If it has clear, expressive features, it may indicate that your child is comfortable showing emotions. On the other hand, a lack of detail may suggest difficulty expressing feelings. They may need help putting their feelings into words.
• Arm Adventures : Outstretched arms often signify a desire for connection or a sense of empowerment. This can mean your child feels good about themselves. Arms close to the body can indicate shyness or insecurity. You can encourage social interaction and give your child the opportunity to develop new skills.

A woman talks to her daughter in a park | Source: Pexels

• Helpful tip : Detailed hands show your child is ready to tackle anything. No hands? Maybe they need a reminder of how capable they are.
• Fashionable : If the person your child has drawn is wearing a flashy outfit with lots of detail, it may suggest that your child is very aware of how others see them. While this isn’t a bad thing, you might want to investigate why they think this way to make sure it’s not something negative.

A woman talking to her daughter on the bed | Source: Pexels

Overview: Setting up the whole thing

Now, step back and look at the masterpiece as a whole. How do all these elements interact? Do they suggest that your child is happy? Or do they hint at a desire for more connection?

Remember, it’s not about being right or wrong. It’s about understanding and connecting. If something in the drawing concerns you, use it as a springboard for gentle, open conversations.

Child’s drawing | Source: Midjourney

“I love the way you designed our house. Can you tell me more about it?” can open up wonderful dialogues.

Every child is unique, and so is every drawing. The most important thing is to make it a fun way to bond with your child and show them how interested you are in their thoughts and feelings.

So, grab a snack, sit down with your little artist, and let the conversation flow. Who knows what amazing discoveries you’ll make together!

A woman hugging her daughter | Source: Pexels

If you enjoyed this personality quiz, here’s another one to assess your personality: Discover the hidden facets of your personality through the choices you make! Whether you’re drawn to a vibrant flower or a majestic tree, these fun quizzes will reveal the unique qualities that make you who you are!