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Best Art Supplies for Kids

ColoringPublished Updated

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Good kids' art supplies are washable, easy to grip and hard to break, and they don't need to be fancy. The aim is to make it easy for children to start creating, and just as easy for you to clean up afterward.

This guide covers four kinds of supplies that suit different ages, what to check on the label for safety, and how to avoid overbuying.

Quick comparison

Comparison of the products recommended in this guide
ProductBest forKey featuresPotential drawbacksAmazon link
Crayola Broad Line washable markers, 12 count Everyday coloring for ages 3 and up A 12-count set of washable broad line markers, per the listing; A 10-count Ultra-Clean set is also sold at a lower price 'Washable' still isn't magic on every surface, so test first View on Amazon for Crayola Broad Line washable markers, 12 count (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
Crayola Large crayons, 8 count Toddlers and young children learning to grip Giant crayons for toddlers, listed for ages 2 and up; Larger packs and an extra-jumbo size are also sold Not suited to fine detail View on Amazon for Crayola Large crayons, 8 count (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
12 jumbo triangle colored pencils for kids School-age children moving toward more detail Twelve thick triangle-shaped colored pencils, per the listing; The triangle shape is meant to help young children hold the pencil Need sharpening and some pressure View on Amazon for 12 jumbo triangle colored pencils for kids (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
DOODLE HOG washable dot markers, 8 colors Toddlers, and kids who like stamping and filling shapes Eight washable dot markers, also called bingo daubers, per the listing; Larger sets in 10 and 15 colors are sold by other brands Not for detailed drawing View on Amazon for DOODLE HOG washable dot markers, 8 colors (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)

Our picks

Crayola Broad Line washable markers, 12 count

Best for: Everyday coloring for ages 3 and up

Key specifications

Pros

  • Bright color with little pressure
  • Washability makes accidents less stressful

Cons

  • 'Washable' still isn't magic on every surface, so test first
  • Broad tips are too thick for detailed pages

Who should buy it: Anyone with children who color regularly and want an easy-cleanup option.

View on Amazon for Crayola Broad Line washable markers, 12 count (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)

Crayola Large crayons, 8 count

Best for: Toddlers and young children learning to grip

Key specifications

Pros

  • Promotes a comfortable grip for little hands
  • Inexpensive and durable

Cons

  • Not suited to fine detail
  • Can mark walls and furniture

Who should buy it: Parents of toddlers and preschoolers.

View on Amazon for Crayola Large crayons, 8 count (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)

12 jumbo triangle colored pencils for kids

Best for: School-age children moving toward more detail

Key specifications

Pros

  • Cleaner and more precise than markers
  • No bleed-through on coloring pages

Cons

  • Need sharpening and some pressure
  • Colors look softer than markers

Who should buy it: Children of about 5 and up who are ready for finer coloring.

View on Amazon for 12 jumbo triangle colored pencils for kids (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)

DOODLE HOG washable dot markers, 8 colors

Best for: Toddlers, and kids who like stamping and filling shapes

Key specifications

Pros

  • Fun and easy for very small children
  • Great for filling shapes and early pattern play

Cons

  • Not for detailed drawing
  • Ink can pool and soak through thin paper

Who should buy it: Parents of toddlers and early preschoolers.

View on Amazon for DOODLE HOG washable dot markers, 8 colors (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)

Buying guide: what to look for

Check the safety labels

In the United States, art materials are usually labeled when they conform to ASTM D-4236, a standard for labeling hazards, and many carry a 'non-toxic' marking. Look for those marks, and for a clear age recommendation. Supplies for under-3s should have no small removable parts.

Washable doesn't mean stain-proof

Washable inks are designed to wash out of many fabrics and skin, but results vary by surface and how long the ink sits. Test on a hidden spot, and keep kids away from porous furniture and unsealed surfaces.

Match supplies to age

Toddlers do best with chunky crayons and dot markers. Preschoolers can handle washable markers. School-age children can move on to thick-core pencils and finer tips.

Don't overbuy

Large sets are tempting, but a basic set of markers, crayons and pencils goes a long way. Add specialty items like paint and glitter pens once there's a clear interest, and keep supplies in a bin so they actually get used.

Looking for a present rather than supplies? See our Best Art Gifts for Kids guide.

Frequently asked questions

Are washable markers really washable?

They're designed to wash from skin and many fabrics, but results vary. Test a hidden spot first, and wash soon after a spill.

What are the best art supplies for toddlers?

Chunky or triangular crayons and washable dot markers. They're easy to grip and made for small hands. Always supervise and follow the age label.

How do I know art supplies are safe for kids?

Look for a conformance statement to ASTM D-4236, a 'non-toxic' marking and an age recommendation on the packaging.

Where can I find coloring pages for kids?

Many parents print pages at home. You can also turn a child's drawing into a clean outline to print and color again.

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