The history of coloring books can be traced back to the early 1900s, when educators and psychologists began to recognize the therapeutic benefits of coloring. At the time, coloring was primarily used as a tool for teaching young children basic motor skills and color recognition.

The first known coloring book was created in 1906 by artist and educator, Maria Montessori. Montessori believed that coloring could be used as a way to improve a child’s fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

Throughout the 20th century, coloring books became increasingly popular among children and adults alike. In the 1950s, the first “modern” coloring books were created, featuring characters from popular children’s television shows and movies. These coloring books were a hit, and soon after, a wide variety of coloring books featuring all types of themes and subjects became available.

In the 1980s and 1990s, coloring books experienced a resurgence in popularity, as adults rediscovered the calming and therapeutic benefits of coloring. Today, coloring books are enjoyed by people of all ages and are used as a way to reduce stress, improve focus, and promote relaxation.

In recent years, the rise of adult coloring books has led to the creation of more sophisticated designs and themes, including mandalas and abstract patterns. Coloring books have also been embraced by the art therapy community, as a way to help people express their emotions and work through difficult issues.

Overall, the history of coloring books is a fascinating one, filled with evolution and innovation. From their humble beginnings as a tool for teaching children basic skills, to their current status as a beloved form of relaxation and self-care, coloring books have come a long way. Whether you’re a child or an adult, there’s no denying the joy and therapeutic benefits of picking up a coloring book and letting your creativity run wild.