Lakeshore Learning Trace and Draw Projector Review

The Lakeshore Learning Trace & Draw Projector gives kids a straightforward way to practice drawing by projecting an image onto paper so they can trace the outline and then add their own details. It is a simple idea, which is often exactly what an art activity needs.

How the Trace and Draw Projector works

The projector uses interchangeable slides to display pictures on a drawing surface. The version we covered in 2024 included six slides with more than 80 images, ranging from animals and vehicles to fantasy-themed pictures.

Kids can trace the projected outline and then color or embellish the picture. For a child who sometimes gets stuck staring at a blank page, having a starting image can make the activity feel more approachable.

Built-in storage keeps the pieces together

The unit included holders and storage space for the slides and drawing supplies. That is a decidedly unglamorous feature, which also makes it one parents may appreciate most. An art activity becomes considerably less charming once half of its essential pieces have migrated under the sofa.

A different way to practice drawing

Tracing gives kids another way to practice following lines and controlling a pencil or marker. More importantly for the actual activity, the projector combines tracing, coloring and free-form decorating in one setup.

Children can follow the supplied image closely or use it as the beginning of something more elaborate.

Who the projector makes sense for

This type of activity is best suited to kids who already enjoy drawing, coloring, crafts or visual projects. It can also provide some structure for children who like making art but are not always sure what to draw first.

For more ideas beyond the art table, our unique gifts for children guide includes other kid-focused options.

No projector can guarantee artistic genius. Keeping a child happily occupied with paper and something other than a screen is already a respectable day’s work.