Baby’s First Art Supplies
Early art-making is all about exploration, sensory delight, and building early creative confidence. Choosing the best beginner tools means prioritizing safety, ease of use, and the ability to engage little hands and minds. Scroll down for my top picks to set your toddler up for success!
How to Introduce Your Child to Creating
The best way to welcome your toddler into the art world is through play. Start with short, low-pressure sessions (the first few may only last 5 to 10 minutes) and let curiosity guide them.
Offer only a few supplies at a time to prevent overwhelm.
Join in, but resist the urge to fix or direct! This is how you build independence and confidence.
Focus on describing what they’re doing (“You’re making big swirls!”) instead of judging the result (“ that looks beautiful!”).
Keep materials accessible so art becomes a natural part of their daily routine, not a rare event.
Bright and easy-to-use
Large, rounded tip makes marks with a simple press.
No need for precision—ideal for beginners.
Can get messy when pressed too hard.
Ergonomic shape fits naturally into toddler hands.
Durable and resistant to breaking, no matter how hard they press or throw!
Encourages broad, sweeping motions and confident strokes.
Encourage large movements and outdoor play.
Washes away easily with rain or water.
Chunky shape = easy to grip.
Encourages gross motor skills - great for big strokes
Turns driveways, patios, and sidewalks into giant canvases.
Safe, non-toxic and washable.
Perfect for sensory play and fine motor development.
Encourages experimentation without needing tools.
Expect a mess! Set it up outside for less stress.
Glides on like a crayon, dries like paint.
Jumbo size is great for small hands.
Rich, opaque colors for bold, satisfying marks.
No water or brushes needed!
Dries in seconds but definitely expect a mess (don’t worry, they’re washable).
Reusable “painting” surface that activates with water like magic.
Designs appear with water, then fade as the surface dries.
Encourages hand-eye coordination and mark-making control.
Stress free for parents and super fun for kids!
Paint Discs & Chunky Brushes
Solid, oversized paint discs are easy to activate with water.
Thick-handled brushes are perfect for toddler grip, building control and coordination.
Minimal mess - quick-drying!
Great intro to brush painting for first-timers.
For the youngest artists, pre-spray discs with water so they activate faster and require fewer steps.
Naturally teaches multi-step directions: dip brush in water → swirl in paint → make marks on paper.
Soft, pliable dough made from natural, non-toxic ingredients.
Primary colors introduce early color theory and mixing.
Strengthens fine motor skills through rolling, pressing, poking and squeezing.
Invites open-ended, sensory-rich play.
Double-sided surface for painting, drawing, and chalk play.
Very large surface area for toddlers to explore.
Encourages vertical surface work for shoulder and arm strength.
Paper roll holders at the top for easy project setup.
Folds for easy storage.
Lightweight, splash-proof, and bleed-resistant with full-length sleeves and elastic cuffs.
Fits ages 1–4.
2 back snaps for easy on/off.
Wipes clean and machine washable (hang to dry to preserve color longer).
Folds small for travel, art class, and art kits.
Bottom pocket catches drips before they hit the floor.
