Drawing is not just limited to a pencil and paper! Let kids explore different drawing tools to understand how to create art with different mediums. All kids learn in different ways and can develop a love for drawing by using something other than a pencil. Here are 10 things that kids can draw and color with:

 

Drawing Tools for Little Hands

 

1. Crayons!

   This is the typical drawing tool that all parents start with, and for good reason. Crayons are easy to purchase anywhere, cheap, and easy to use. You can buy a box with a plethora of colors to let kids have endless options. They are long lasting and if they break, they are still usable. We recommend this Crayola Ultimate Crayon Collection.

2. Jumbo Crayons!

   You may want to start off with bigger crayons made specifically for little toddlers to hold. Little hands an do a better job holding something big to draw with. We love these Melissa & Doug Jumbo Triangular Crayons, their triangle shape makes it easy for they fingers to learn a more proper grip than with other shapes.

3. Markers!

   My kids love markers because of their boldness. The liquid inside markers offers a brighter and more vivid finish than crayons. The only downside is that markers usually don’t last as long as crayons. Make sure you find packages of markers that specifically say, “Washable.” We’ve discovered that many types of markers are not actually washable, and can stain badly, even if the packaging is marketed towards kids. We love these little markers for toddlers to learn how to draw with: Crayola Crayola Pip-Squeaks Markers 26-Pack.

4. Colored Pencils!

   These are great drawing tools for both older kids and adults because they can draw precise lines and color in fine areas. Colored pencils are usually cheap and long lasting. You can get a large pack like Crayola Colored Pencils 64 Count for less than $10, and it will last a very long time. I like colored pencils because they don’t break easily like crayons do and can be used to draw and to color.

5. Gel Pens!

   These drawings tools are favored by older kids and teens as they get more proficient in writing and doodling. Pens are best for lined paper or small spaces like calendars or planners. I have not yet gotten my younger kids gel pens, because they take much dexterity to hold properly for long periods of time. Artlicious – ULTIMATE 100 Unique Gel Pens Set

6. Finger Paints!

   This is such a fun way to get babies started on drawing. Even babies as young as 9 months old can get started on finger paints to learn hand-eye coordination and basic motor skills. They will love the texture and be so amazed they can create something with their hands! I like these ALEX Toys 24 Finger Paints because they come in pots and you don’t have to pour it on a palette or anything.

7. Washable Paints!

   There are many different kinds of tempera paints made for young children. I like to give my kids large drawing pads or an easel to create their painted works of art. They love to draw and paint using paint brushes or even smaller sponge brushes. Brushes do not necessarily require a proper grip, so kids may feel more relaxed using this kind of tool where they can hold it more freely and comfortably. They come in all sorts of colors like these beautiful Crayola Washable Metallic Paint Set.

8. Watercolor Paints!

   I recommend watercolors for kids 5 years and older. Watercolors takes extra training to learn how to properly mix the paints with water and how to clean off their brushes in between. They are a little bit trickier to learn with because the colors are more translucent and must be “built up” to create vividness. But watercolors are great for coloring within dark lines made with a black crayon or marker. They are also usually less mess than tempera paints. Plus they are surprisingly affordable: Crayola 24 Ct Washable Watercolors

9. Chalk Pastels!

   These look very similar to crayons, but are usually thicker in size. They are fun to use because it takes little effort to make vivid colors. I also only recommend this medium for older kids 5 and up, because they can get messy. They smear easier so kids must learn how to draw without dragging their hands and arms over colored areas. ALEX Toys 48 Chalk Pastels

10. Oil Pastels!

    These are similar to the chalk pastels I just talked about, except they have an even smoother and brighter finish. They are very satisfying to use because of how bright they color using very little strokes. But they also have the same messy issue, so it’s best to wait until kids are older and can understand instructions on how to hold them properly. Pentel Arts Oil Pastels, 50 Color Set