Finding the right art supplies for toddlers is about balancing creativity with practicality. You want tools that will spark their imagination without causing you endless stress about messes and stains. The good news is that today’s market is full of innovative, toddler-friendly options designed specifically for little hands and big imaginations.
The key features to look for are washability and safety. Non-toxic, washable formulas are non-negotiable for this age group, allowing for spontaneous creativity on everything from paper to (occasionally) the walls. Ergonomically designed tools also help develop fine motor skills and a proper grip, setting the stage for future writing success. This roundup focuses on products that meet these crucial criteria, making art time fun and worry-free for everyone involved.
The Best Art Supplies for Toddlers
- Dot Markers for Toddlers Kids Preschool
- Crayola My First Triangular Crayons 8ct
- Crayola Washable Kids Paint Set (12ct)
- Crayola Broad Line Markers (12 Count)
- Do A Dot Art! Markers 6-Pack Rainbow
- Faber-Castell Jumbo Grip Crayons (Pack of 12)
- Honeysticks 100% Pure Beeswax Crayons (12 Pack)
- Crayola Washable Finger Paints (6ct)
- Crayola Washable Dot Markers Activity Set
- Melissa & Doug Jumbo Triangular Colored Pencils
Dot Markers for Toddlers Kids Preschool
These dot markers are a fantastic way to introduce young children to painting without the typical mess. The chunky, bottle-style design is easy for small hands to grasp and use, creating perfect dots of color with every press. The water-based, non-toxic formula is completely safe and washes easily off skin, clothes, and most surfaces, giving parents peace of mind during craft time.
With eight vibrant colors including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, pink, and brown, these markers offer plenty of creative possibilities. The dot design helps control paint flow and prevents color bleeding, making them ideal for both freeform art and structured activities. They are an essential tool for any toddler’s arts and crafts collection, providing a fun and engaging sensory experience.
Crayola My First Triangular Crayons
Crayola’s My First Triangular Crayons are expertly designed for a toddler’s developing grip. The unique triangular shape naturally encourages little fingers to hold the crayon correctly, promoting a proper writing grip from the start. This design helps build gross and fine motor skills, which are fundamental for early childhood development.
This set includes eight washable crayons, ensuring that any stray marks on skin or clothing can be easily cleaned. The classic Crayola quality provides bright, smooth colors that are perfect for a child’s first coloring experiences. These crayons are a smart choice for parents and educators looking to combine creative fun with essential skill-building.
Crayola Washable Kids Paint Set
This Amazon Exclusive paint set from Crayola offers the perfect mix of classic and glitter paints for young artists. The collection includes six classic colors that deliver rich, smooth coverage and six glitter paints that add a captivating sparkle to any project. This variety allows children to create both bold, beautiful artwork and dazzling, shiny masterpieces.
As with all Crayola washable products, these paints are designed for easy clean-up, washing off skin and most washable clothing without a trace. The set is an excellent resource for classroom activities or home art projects, providing everything needed for a complete painting session. It’s a wonderful way to encourage artistic expression with minimal fuss.
Crayola Broad Line Markers
Crayola’s Broad Line Markers are a staple for any young artist’s toolkit. This set of 12 dazzling colors is perfect for coloring books, drawing, and a wide range of art projects. The broad tips are ideal for making bold statements, mastering shading techniques, and filling large areas with vibrant color.
The ultra-clean, washable formula is a parent’s best friend, as it easily washes from skin, clothing, and surfaces. This feature allows children to express their creativity freely without the worry of permanent stains. These reliable markers are a fantastic, long-lasting option for children ages three and up.
Do A Dot Art! Markers
As the original dot marker, Do A Dot Art! offers a trusted and high-quality option for kids’ crafts. Made in the USA with non-toxic, gluten-free, and latex-free materials, these markers meet the highest safety standards. The no-spill, no-splash bottles make painting a blast without the typical mess associated with liquid paints.
This six-pack rainbow set includes red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. The markers are designed to promote early childhood development, helping to build hand-eye coordination and color recognition. Created by a preschool teacher, they are a proven tool for layered learning and are perfect for toddler, preschool, and kindergarten activities.
Faber-Castell Jumbo Grip Crayons
Faber-Castell’s Jumbo Grip Crayons are designed with ergonomics in mind. The unique shape and soft grip zone make them exceptionally comfortable for little hands to hold and control. This design reduces hand fatigue and makes coloring a more pleasant experience for developing artists.
This pack of 12 jumbo crayons provides a wide spectrum of colors for creative projects. The high-quality pigments offer excellent color payoff, and the durable construction means they are less likely to break under pressure. These crayons are a superb choice for supporting a child’s artistic efforts while aiding in the development of their fine motor skills.
Honeysticks 100% Pure Beeswax Crayons
For parents seeking a natural and eco-friendly art supply, Honeysticks Beeswax Crayons are an outstanding option. Handmade in New Zealand, they are crafted from 100% pure beeswax and food-grade colors, completely free from paraffin wax and chemical fillers. You can even notice the natural, pleasant scent of pure beeswax.
The chubby, durable shape is perfect for small hands; they are easy to grip but very difficult to break. The 12 bright colors glide smoothly onto paper, making drawing and coloring a satisfying activity. These crayons are a safe and non-toxic choice, ideal as a first crayon for toddlers and a reliable tool for any young artist.
Crayola Washable Finger Paints
Crayola Washable Finger Paints offer a classic, sensory-rich art experience for toddlers. This set includes six 8-ounce bottles in vibrant shades: Blue, Yellow, Orange, Green, Violet, and Red. The paints are specially formulated to be thick enough for little hands to manipulate, creating beautiful textures and blends.
The washable formula is a key benefit, as it easily washes from skin and most washable clothing. The EZ Squeeze bottles with flip-top caps are designed for little hands to use with minimal assistance, promoting independence and reducing mess. This set provides a wonderful opportunity for tactile learning and creative play.
Crayola Washable Dot Markers Activity Set
This Crayola set combines the fun of dot markers with educational activities. It includes four washable dot markers and 30 themed activity pages that guide children through learning letters, numbers, colors, and shapes. This combination turns art time into a valuable learning opportunity.
The markers are washable, providing the same stress-free experience as other Crayola washable products. The included activities are designed to hold a child’s interest while reinforcing early learning concepts. This all-in-one set is an excellent gift idea and a great resource for combining creativity with fundamental skill development.
Melissa & Doug Jumbo Triangular Colored Pencils
Melissa & Doug’s Jumbo Triangular Colored Pencils are a step up from crayons for toddlers who are ready for a new challenge. The jumbo, triangular shape is easy for small hands to grip and helps guide fingers into a proper tripod hold. This ergonomic design supports the development of fine motor control needed for writing.
Made with high-quality, break-resistant wood, these pencils are durable enough for enthusiastic young artists. The thick cores produce vibrant color and are less prone to snapping. While not explicitly marketed as washable, their pencil form is generally less messy than markers or paint, making them a great low-mess option for focused coloring.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in Toddler Art Supplies
As a parent, I know that picking the right art supplies for a toddler is less about creating a masterpiece and more about managing the beautiful, messy chaos. My main goals are always safety, ease of cleanup, and finding something that will actually hold my child’s interest. When I’m shopping for the 10 best art supplies for toddlers: safe and washable options, I keep a few key things in mind.
First and foremost, safety is non-negotiable. I always look for supplies that are labeled non-toxic and ASTM D-4236 certified. This means a toxicologist has evaluated the product and any potential hazards are printed on the label. I also avoid anything with small parts that could be a choking hazard. For younger toddlers, I steer clear of supplies that require sharp points, like standard pencils or rigid brushes, opting for chunkier, easier-to-grip tools instead.
My second non-negotiable is washability. I check the packaging for the words “washable” on everything – crayons, markers, and especially paint. I’ve learned the hard way that not all “washable” paints are created equal. Some wipe off surfaces easily but might stain clothes. A quick test on an old t-shirt or a hidden spot on the wall can save you a lot of stress later. I also keep a pack of baby wipes or a damp cloth nearby during every art session for immediate cleanup.
Finally, I think about the experience and the outcome. Toddlers are sensory learners, so I love supplies that offer different textures, like modeling dough, finger paints, or crinkly paper. I also look for things that are easy for little hands to use successfully. Fat crayons that don’t require a lot of pressure to make a mark, or dot markers that create a perfect circle with a simple tap, build confidence and make the process fun rather than frustrating.
By focusing on these three areas – safety, washability, and age-appropriate design – I can set up an art activity that is enjoyable for my toddler and stress-free for me. It allows them to experiment and express themselves without me having to worry about a permanent new mural on the dining room table.
FAQ
What are the absolute safest art supplies for a 1-year-old?
For a one-year-old, who is likely still mouthing objects, your safest bets are large, taste-safe options. Think oversized, beeswax or soy-based crayons that are too big to choke on. You can also make your own simple finger paints from plain yogurt mixed with a drop of natural food coloring. Always supervise closely, even with safe materials.
Are watercolor paints a good option for toddlers?
They can be, but I have a few tips. The liquid watercolors in dropper bottles are less messy than the palettes that need a lot of water. They also tend to be more vibrant. Look for washable, non-toxic formulas. I prefer to use them with a thick, toddler-friendly brush on watercolor paper, which absorbs the liquid better and prevents the paper from tearing into a soggy mess.
How do I get marker stains off my toddler’s skin and the table?
For truly washable markers, soap and water usually do the trick. For more stubborn stains on skin, a little baby oil or makeup remover on a cotton pad works wonders. For tables or other sealed surfaces, a spray of rubbing alcohol or a magic eraser sponge typically lifts the stain right off. Always test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first.
My toddler gets frustrated when they can’t draw a specific shape. What should I do?
This is so common! I focus on process-over-product art. Instead of asking them to draw a house, I might give them stickers, stamps, or those fantastic dot markers. These tools guarantee a satisfying result with minimal effort, which builds their confidence. I also praise the colors they choose or the energy of their scribbles rather than what it’s “supposed” to be.
What are some essential, must-have items to start a toddler art kit?
If you’re just building your kit, start with the basics: a pack of jumbo washable crayons, a set of thick washable markers, a few chunky paint brushes, and a pad of large, sturdy paper. From there, you can add in washable finger paints, a roll of craft paper for really big projects, non-toxic glue sticks, and a container of modeling dough. This covers a wide range of creative possibilities and gives you a great foundation of the 10 best art supplies for toddlers: safe and washable options.