The Best Art Kits for Kids to Encourage Their Artistic Talents

Whether your child is destined to be the next Basquiat or enjoys sketching and crafting, engaging in arts and crafts can significantly benefit their creativity, cognitive development, and self-esteem. According to Nadia ParedesMA, LMFT, ATR, president of the American Art Therapy Association, “art doesn’t have to be beautiful to be meaningful,” she says. “Creativity is a cognitive skill that acts like a mental gym, helping us adapt.”

To help you choose the best art kits for kids, we consulted a registered art therapist about their benefits and what features to look for. I’m also an art teacher, children’s book author and illustrator, and artist, so I brought my experience and expertise into the mix. We evaluated numerous top-rated kits and ensured they met expert recommendations, with a pediatric psychologist reviewing the article for accuracy.

Our Favorite Art Kits for Kids

Paint and Play Kits for Kids

Painting is a special art activity—I’ve watched kids focus, unwind, and just have plain ol’ fun with each brushstroke. Whether it’s using glow-in-the-dark paint on rocks or designing your own race carchildren have the opportunity to use their imaginations. They can experiment with colors and textures, all while developing fine motor skills along the way.

Doodle and Draw Kits for Kids

With endless possibilities for self-expression, these doodle and draw kits help kids find their unique artistic voice. From the Crayola Twistables to the Crayola Inspiration Art Casekids will feel invited to unleash their creativity and develop their drawing skills.

Art Kits for Toddlers

Just right for toddlers ready to explore, the Bluey Activity Kit and sidewalk chalk are a few easy-to-use materials that spark creativity. Children can dive into sensory play while discovering colors with large drawing utensils and fun textures. You can also introduce the joy of art with the KiwiCo Craft & Carry Supply Stationwhich comes with 1,000 craft-ready pieces for all kinds of creative projects (keep in mind that some of the crafting supplies are small, so they’re not suitable for kiddos who like to put things in their mouth).

Art Kits for Preschoolers

With young children, art can feel like play. Keep kids engaged with art kits like Alex Toys Little Hands Picture Mosaicwhich comes with five mosaic pictures. There’s also an art kit that helps kids express their feelings and encourage little fingers to build fine motor skills.

Kids Art Kits

Each of these art sets is a treasure trove of creative possibilities, ideal for kids of all ages and interests. They feature a mix of paintingdrawing, and crafting suppliesall of which encourage self-expression and artistic growth. They’re a go-to choice for after-school fun or weekend projects, keeping creativity alive while building essential skills.

Art Kits for Teens

Our favorite art kits for teens feature high-quality materials to enhance their art skills. With unique painting kits and sketching toolsthey invite exploration across different mediums. They can even take their art to the next level with this 85-piece art kit.

Best Jewelry Kits

Kids will love exciting art activities that combine crafting fun with window art and jewelry sets. From diamond art to DIY craftskids can make unique gifts and personal creations they can take with them on the go, wear every day, or share with friends.

Our Review Process

To determine the best arts and crafts for kids, we consulted Nadia Paredes, MA, LMFT, ATR, a mom, therapist, and American Art Therapy Association president. To align with her recommendations, we researched numerous art kits based on cost, age level, and consumer reviews. Additionally, we gathered insights from kids and parents who have tried these kits.

One of the authors of this article is also an experienced art teacher, charcoal artist, and children’s book author an illustrator. She contributed her expertise in selecting art kits for kids she has used in her classroom and with her own daughters.

How to Choose the Best Art Kits for Kids

• Age Level: Most art kits provide age guidelines, but it’s essential to prioritize safety for younger kids by avoiding small pieces and complex projects. Older kids can follow written instructions and enjoy completing tasks. Nadia Paredes recommends Viktor Lowenfeld’s theory of artistic development, which outlines stages from scribbling to pseudorealism, as a helpful guide for selecting suitable kits.
• Ease of Use: While some kits have clear instructions, many are freeform or self-explanatory. Younger children may need guidance on new skills, like using sidewalk chalk or modeling clay, so it’s important not to overwhelm them to avoid frustration.
• Materials: Some kits have limited materials, requiring new projects or additional purchases once completed. Others are designed for repeated use, although supplies like pencils or paint will eventually run out.

Who We Are

Jacquelyn Smith is a Parents writer who covers parenting, fashion, and teaching. She is an art teacher, author, and illustrator of the children’s book Mr. Frizzand a professional charcoal artist. Jacquelyn is also a mom to a 15-year-old and 9-year-old daughter who had a diverse collection of active and educational toys as infants.

Tanya Edwards is a Parents writer with experience covering parenting, food, beauty, and health. She’s always doing arts and crafts projects with her nieces and nephews and loves to be the aunt who spoils the kids. One thing she’s learned over the years is that you don’t have to be great at art to enjoy it. Just explore!