Coloring books: the beginning
The McLoughlin Brothers are credited as the inventors of the coloring book, when, in the 1880s, they produced The Little Folks’ Painting Book, in collaboration with Kate Greenaway. They continued to publish coloring books until the 1920s, when the McLoughlin Brothers became part of the Milton Bradley Company. Crayons were not invented until later, so these first coloring books were actually watercolor paint books.
A coloring book (British English: colouring-in book, colouring book, or colouring page) is a type of book containing line art to which people are intended to add color using crayons, colored pencils, marker pens, paint or other artistic media.
-From Wikipedia-
benefits of coloring
Children have been taking advantage of the benefits of coloring for years, only recently, around 2010, have adults realized all they gain from this mesmerizing past time.
Coloring for adults offers several benefits:
- Stress Reduction- coloring engages the mind in a repetitive and soothing activity, reducing stress and anxiety levels
- Improved Focus-The act of coloring requires concentration and attention to detail, improving focus and cognitive function
- Increased Creativity- Coloring allows for experimentation with colors and patterns, fostering creativity and self-expression.
- Motor Skills- Coloring exercises fine motor skills, such as hand-eye coordination and dexterity
- Brain Stimulation- Coloring can stimulate the brain’s reward system releasing endorphins that promote feelings of pleasure and well-being
- Mindfulness and relaxation- Coloring can be a form of mindfulness practice, allowing individuals to detach from daily thoughts and worries and find inner peace
- Improved sleep-Coloring before bed can promote relaxation and reduce screen time, leading to better sleep quality
- Social Interaction- Coloring can be a social activity, enjoyed with friends or family, fostering connection and reducing feelings of isolation
- Nostalgia and Sensory Stimulation- For some adults coloring may invoke nostalgic memories and provide sensory stimulation, enhancing overall mood and well-being
Gracefully Calm 