⚠️ Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. Our ratings (out of 10) are editorial assessments based on product features, user feedback, and real-world testing. Purchasing through our links doesn’t affect your price but helps support our research.

Finding the perfect art supplies for a 5-year-old can feel like navigating a rainbow-colored maze—exciting but overwhelming. As someone who’s tested countless art kits with real kids, I’ve learned that the best options balance safety, engagement, and just the right amount of creative freedom.

Five-year-olds are at that magical stage where their fine motor skills are developing rapidly, and art becomes more than just scribbles—it’s storytelling. The key is finding supplies that are easy to handle, washable (because let’s be real, mess happens), and spark that natural curiosity without frustrating little hands.

After testing dozens of products with actual 5-year-olds—and cleaning up plenty of glitter accidents—I’ve narrowed down the absolute best art supplies that will have your child creating masterpieces while giving you peace of mind.

Best Art Supplies for 5 Year Old – 2025 Reviews

Best Choice
1
Crayola Inspiration Art Case with crayons, markers, and pencils in a space-themed portable case
CRAYOLA

Crayola Inspiration Art Case – 140-Piece Space Theme Art Kit

This comprehensive art kit includes 140 pieces perfect for young artists exploring multiple mediums. The portable case keeps everything organized with separate compartments for crayons, markers, and colored pencils.

I was impressed by how the space theme captivated 5-year-olds while the variety encouraged them to experiment with different art forms.

140-Piece SetPortable OrganizationWashable Materials
9.8
Exceptional
View on Amazon
Show Detailed Review

What I Loved:

The moment I opened this case, I knew it was something special. The sheer variety of art supplies meant kids could switch between crayons, markers, and pencils without getting bored. What really stood out was how the portable case with locking latches made clean-up and storage incredibly easy—something every parent appreciates.

During testing, the washable markers lived up to their name, cleaning off surfaces and little hands without much fuss. The space theme sparked imaginative stories about rockets and aliens, turning art time into an adventure. I loved watching children naturally organize their supplies in the compartments, learning responsibility while having fun.

The Not-So-Great:

The crayons are standard size, which might be slightly challenging for very small hands, but most 5-year-olds handled them just fine.

Bottom Line:

This art case delivers exceptional value and engagement for young artists ready to explore multiple creative mediums.

Budget Pick
2
Hapikalor rainbow colored pencils in vibrant changing colors with jumbo grip
HAPIKALOR

Rainbow Colored Pencils – 12-Color Jumbo Set

These unique rainbow pencils feature color-changing cores that reveal multiple hues with each stroke. The jumbo size is perfect for small hands, and the ebony wood construction provides durability.

I found the surprise color changes kept 5-year-olds engaged and excited to see what would appear next on their paper.

Color-Changing CoresJumbo GripDurable Construction
8.0
Good
View on Amazon
Show Detailed Review

What I Loved:

There’s something magical about watching a child’s face light up when they realize their pencil is creating rainbow colors that shift and change as they draw. The jumbo size was perfect for little hands that are still developing grip strength, and I appreciated how the thick core resisted breaking—even when pressed hard during enthusiastic coloring sessions.

The vibrant colors showed up beautifully on paper, and the element of surprise kept kids drawing longer than usual. They’d excitedly show me how the colors transformed, making each artwork unique.

The Not-So-Great:

Some pencils required a larger sharpener hole, and the lead could break if sharpened too aggressively.

Bottom Line:

These pencils deliver fantastic creative fun at an affordable price point that’s perfect for stocking stuffers or first art sets.

Best Value
3
OSLINE rainbow scratch paper art notebooks with wooden styluses and templates
OSLINE

Rainbow Scratch Paper Art – Mess-Free Creative Kit

This scratch art kit includes two notebooks with black coating that reveals vibrant rainbow colors when scratched away. The included templates help guide young artists while allowing creativity.

I was amazed at how this mess-free activity kept children entertained for hours without the cleanup worries of traditional art supplies.

Mess-Free ActivityRainbow RevealIncluded Templates
8.1
Good
View on Amazon
Show Detailed Review

What I Loved:

This was the cleanest art activity I’ve ever tested with 5-year-olds—no spilled paint, no marker stains, just pure creative fun. The moment kids discovered they could scratch away the black surface to reveal bright rainbow colors was pure magic. The wooden styluses were easy for small hands to grip, and the included templates gave beginners confidence while still allowing for freeform creativity.

I loved how the notebook format meant artwork could be saved and shared, and parents appreciated not having to worry about messes on clothes or furniture. It became a go-to activity for car rides and quiet time.

The Not-So-Great:

The black scratch material can create some dust, but it’s minimal and easy to wipe away.

Bottom Line:

This scratch art kit offers incredible entertainment value while keeping your space clean and organized.

4
Crayola All That Glitters art case with glitter crayons, chalk, and glue
CRAYOLA

All That Glitters Art Case – Sparkly Creative Set

This glitter-themed art set brings sparkle to classic art supplies with glitter crayons, chalk, and glue tubes. The portable case keeps everything organized for on-the-go creativity.

I found the glitter elements added an extra layer of excitement that particularly appealed to 5-year-olds who love anything shiny and special.

Glitter SuppliesPortable CaseColor-Your-Own Stickers
9.2
Excellent
View on Amazon
Show Detailed Review

What I Loved:

If you have a child who lives for sparkle, this set will make their year. The glitter crayons actually sparkle as they color, and the glitter glue tubes were easy for small hands to squeeze without making huge messes. What surprised me was how well the portable case contained the glitter—usually my nightmare—while keeping supplies organized.

The color-your-own sticker sheet was a hit, allowing kids to create custom decorations for their artwork or belongings. During testing, the glitter chalk on construction paper created stunning effects that children were proud to display.

The Not-So-Great:

Some glitter can transfer to hands and surfaces, but it’s minimal compared to loose glitter products.

Bottom Line:

This glitter art case delivers magical sparkle while maintaining the quality and safety parents expect from Crayola.

5
QANIY air dry clay kit with marine animal molds and sculpting tools
QANIY

Air Dry Clay Kit – Marine Life Modeling Set

This modeling clay set includes 14 reusable tins with vibrant colors and tools for creating marine life creatures. The air-dry clay requires no baking and is safe and non-toxic.

I was impressed by how the step-by-step tutorials helped 5-year-olds successfully create recognizable animals while developing fine motor skills.

Air-Dry ClayMarine Life MoldsStep-by-Step Tutorials
8.7
Very Good
View on Amazon
Show Detailed Review

What I Loved:

There’s something deeply satisfying about watching a child transform a lump of clay into a recognizable sea creature. The clay was surprisingly soft and easy to manipulate—perfect for little hands that might struggle with harder modeling materials. I appreciated how the included tutorials broke down each animal into simple steps that 5-year-olds could follow with minimal adult help.

The colors were vibrant and mixed well, and the fact that the clay air-dried meant no waiting for baking or special equipment. Children loved displaying their finished penguins, turtles, and fish, and the reusable tins kept leftover clay fresh for future projects.

The Not-So-Great:

The clay can dry out if left uncovered, so storage requires attention between uses.

Bottom Line:

This clay kit provides a wonderful sensory experience that builds confidence in young sculptors.

6
MD CREATIVE drawing with numbers educational game cards and marker
MD CREATIVE

Drawing with Numbers – Educational Art Game

This educational art game teaches children to draw animals by tracing numbers. The erasable cards and included marker allow for repeated practice and skill building.

I found this unique approach helped 5-year-olds connect numbers to creative expression while improving their drawing confidence.

Number TracingErasable CardsEducational Approach
8.5
Very Good
View on Amazon
Show Detailed Review

What I Loved:

This clever set seamlessly blends math and art in a way that feels like play rather than learning. Watching 5-year-olds discover they could create a duck starting with the number 2 was genuinely heartwarming. The cards are sturdy and wipe clean easily, meaning the same child could practice multiple times or siblings could share.

I was impressed by how this approach built confidence—children who might hesitate to draw freehand felt successful following the number guides. The portable size made it perfect for restaurants or waiting rooms, providing educational entertainment on the go.

The Not-So-Great:

The marker sometimes requires firm pressure to erase completely from the laminated surface.

Bottom Line:

This educational art game makes learning numbers fun while developing fundamental drawing skills.

7
VigorFun 240-piece art kit with double-sided easel and various supplies
VIGORFUN

240-Piece Art Kit – Double-Sided Easel Case

This extensive art kit includes 240 pieces with a unique double-sided easel case that allows two children to create simultaneously. The variety covers everything from watercolors to oil pastels.

I appreciated how the easel design encouraged collaborative art sessions between siblings or friends.

240-Piece SetDouble-Sided EaselMultiple Mediums
8.2
Good
View on Amazon
Show Detailed Review

What I Loved:

When you open this case, it’s like unleashing a mini art studio—the sheer quantity and variety of supplies is impressive. The double-sided easel was brilliant for playdates, allowing two children to create side-by-side without fighting over space. I loved watching siblings collaborate and share ideas across the easel.

The watercolor cakes produced vibrant colors with just a little water, and the oil pastels glided smoothly across paper. Having so many options meant children could experiment with different techniques and discover new favorites.

The Not-So-Great:

Some supplies like markers may dry out if the case isn’t closed properly between uses.

Bottom Line:

This art kit offers tremendous variety that will keep creative kids engaged for countless art sessions.

8
Toidgy rock painting kit with glow in the dark paints and assorted rocks
TOIDGY

Rock Painting Kit – Glow in The Dark Arts

This rock painting kit includes 10 premium rocks along with waterproof, metallic, and glow-in-the-dark paints. The complete set comes with brushes, glitter glues, and decorative elements.

I found the glow-in-the-dark feature added an extra element of excitement that had children eager to see their creations illuminate.

Glow-in-Dark Paints10 Premium RocksDecorative Elements
8.0
Good
View on Amazon
Show Detailed Review

What I Loved:

There’s something primitive and satisfying about painting on stones—it connects children to nature while expressing creativity. The glow-in-the-dark paint was the star of the show, with kids eagerly waiting for darkness to see their artwork illuminate. The rocks were smooth and well-sized for small hands, and the variety of paints meant each creation could be unique.

I appreciated how this activity could be done outdoors or at a table, and the finished rocks made wonderful gifts or garden decorations. The googly eyes and stickers added playful elements that children adored.

The Not-So-Great:

Some paints may require multiple coats for full coverage, and adhesion can vary on the stone surface.

Bottom Line:

This rock painting kit transforms ordinary stones into magical treasures that children will cherish.

9
Klever Kits foam art kit with EVA foam stickers and colorful boards
KLEVER KITS

Foam Art Kit – No-Mess Sticker Activity

This foam art kit features over 800 vibrant stickers and 6 art boards for creating colorful designs without glue or paint. The match-and-play concept develops color and shape recognition.

I was impressed by how this mess-free activity kept 5-year-olds independently engaged while building important cognitive skills.

No-Mess Design800+ StickersEducational Play
8.0
Good
View on Amazon
Show Detailed Review

What I Loved:

As a parent who’s cleaned one too many art messes, I genuinely appreciated this completely clean creative activity. The foam stickers peeled easily and stuck well to the boards, and the matching challenge kept children focused and engaged. I watched 5-year-olds carefully studying shapes and colors to complete the pictures, developing problem-solving skills without realizing they were learning.

The unicorn and princess themes were particularly popular, and having so many stickers meant children could create multiple designs or experiment with their own patterns. It became a favorite travel activity since there was nothing to spill or clean up.

The Not-So-Great:

Some stickers may have adhesive on the wrong side, requiring careful placement.

Bottom Line:

This foam art kit delivers creative fun without the cleanup, making it perfect for busy families.

10
Xuoent fabric flower bouquets kit with flower making machine and components
XUOENT

Fabric Flower Bouquets – DIY Craft Kit

This DIY flower making kit includes a flower machine and components for creating fabric bouquets without glue or scissors. The STEM-focused activity develops fine motor skills and artistic expression.

I found the process of assembling flowers engaged 5-year-olds in understanding plant structure while creating beautiful arrangements.

No Glue NeededSTEM ActivityFamily Bonding
8.0
Good
View on Amazon
Show Detailed Review

What I Loved:

There’s something special about watching a child create something beautiful they can give as a gift. The flower-making process felt like magic to 5-year-olds as they saw petals come together into recognizable flowers. I appreciated that no glue or scissors were needed, making it safer for independent play once they understood the process.

The included vases and wrapping paper meant children could create complete bouquets to present to family members, building confidence and social skills. When parents joined in, it became a wonderful bonding activity that produced lasting memories along with beautiful flowers.

The Not-So-Great:

The assembly process requires adult guidance initially, and some children may find the steps challenging alone.

Bottom Line:

This flower kit creates meaningful creative experiences that children can share with loved ones.

Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different

We know you’re skeptical of art supply reviews that feel like they’re just repeating marketing copy. That’s why we took a completely different approach—testing 10 different art products with actual 5-year-olds in real-world scenarios.

Our scoring system is 70% based on real-world performance with children this age: how engaged they stayed, how easy the supplies were to handle, safety concerns, and cleanup factors. The remaining 30% comes from innovation and competitive differentiation—what makes each product stand out in a crowded market.

We analyzed feedback from thousands of parents and educators to understand what truly works for 5-year-olds. For example, our top-rated Crayola Inspiration Art Case scored 9.8 for its perfect balance of variety, portability, and child-friendly design, while our budget pick Hapikalor Rainbow Pencils earned its 8.0 rating by delivering surprising creative fun at an accessible price point.

The score differences reflect real trade-offs: premium options offer more features and durability, while budget choices provide excellent value for specific needs. Every product here has been vetted for safety, age-appropriateness, and that magical ability to spark creativity in young artists.

Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Art Supplies for 5-Year-Olds

1. Safety First: Non-Toxic and Age-Appropriate Materials

When shopping for art supplies for 5-year-olds, safety should be your top priority. Look for products labeled non-toxic and specifically designed for children ages 3+. Avoid small parts that could pose choking hazards, and ensure markers and paints are washable from skin and surfaces.

I always check for safety certifications like ASTM D-4236, which indicates the product has been evaluated by a toxicologist. Remember, even non-toxic supplies shouldn’t be ingested, so supervision is still important during art time.

2. Size Matters: Tools for Developing Hands

Five-year-olds are still developing their fine motor skills, so supply size makes a huge difference. Jumbo crayons, thick markers, and oversized pencils are easier for small hands to grip and control. Avoid adult-sized brushes or delicate tools that might frustrate young artists.

During testing, I noticed children using appropriately sized supplies showed more confidence and produced more detailed artwork. The right tools can mean the difference between a happy artist and a frustrated one.

3. Variety vs. Specialization: Full Kits vs. Individual Items

Consider whether your child would benefit from a comprehensive art kit or specific supplies. Full art kits like the Crayola sets offer exposure to multiple mediums, which is great for discovering interests. Individual items like specialized pencils or clay allow deeper exploration of particular skills.

I recommend starting with a balanced kit to gauge interests, then supplementing with individual items based on what your child enjoys most. This approach prevents waste while supporting developing passions.

4. Mess Management: Washable and Easy-Clean Options

Let’s be honest—art with 5-year-olds can get messy. Look for washable markers, water-based paints, and non-staining materials that clean up easily from skin, clothes, and surfaces. Products labeled ‘washable’ have saved many parents from permanent decorations on their walls.

I’ve found that washable supplies actually encourage more creative freedom because children (and parents) aren’t worried about mistakes or spills. The best products balance creative potential with practical cleanup.

5. Educational Value: Learning Through Creative Expression

Art isn’t just about making pretty pictures—it’s a powerful learning tool. Supplies that incorporate color recognition, shape matching, or following patterns help develop cognitive skills while being fun. Products like the MD CREATIVE drawing game seamlessly blend art with early math concepts.

I look for supplies that challenge children just enough to learn new skills without causing frustration. The best educational art supplies feel like play while building important foundations for future learning.

6. Durability and Storage: Products That Last

Children’s art supplies need to withstand enthusiastic use and proper storage. Look for sturdy cases, well-constructed tools, and supplies that don’t dry out quickly. Portable cases with secure closures keep everything organized and make art time more manageable.

From experience, I can tell you that investing in durable supplies actually saves money in the long run. Products that maintain their quality through multiple uses provide better value and more consistent creative experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the safest art supplies for 5-year-olds?

The safest art supplies for 5-year-olds are always non-toxic, washable, and age-appropriate. Look for products specifically labeled for ages 3+ and avoid small parts that could pose choking hazards. Established brands like Crayola have rigorous safety standards, but always check labels and supervise art activities.

2. How do I choose between a full art kit and individual supplies?

Consider your child’s interests and your storage space. Full art kits are fantastic for beginners because they offer variety and help discover preferences. Individual supplies work well for children who have clear favorites or limited space. I often recommend starting with a quality kit, then expanding with specific items your child uses most.

3. Are washable markers really washable from clothes and walls?

Most washable markers live up to their name when cleaned promptly. From testing, I’ve found that quality washable markers from brands like Crayola typically come out of clothing with standard washing and off walls with a damp cloth. However, always test on a small area first and clean spills immediately for best results.

4. What art activities help with fine motor skills development?

Activities that require precise hand movements like coloring within lines, using safety scissors, manipulating clay, or placing small stickers all help develop fine motor skills. Products like the OSLINE scratch art or Toidgy rock painting kit are particularly effective because they combine creative fun with skill-building challenges.

5. How can I encourage creativity without making a huge mess?

Look for mess-contained or mess-free options like the Klever Kits foam art or OSLINE scratch paper. Establish clear art zones with washable surfaces, use smocks or old clothes, and involve children in cleanup routines. I’ve found that when children know cleanup is part of the process, they’re more mindful about containing messes.

Final Verdict

After extensive testing with real 5-year-olds, the Crayola Inspiration Art Case stands out as the best overall choice for its perfect balance of variety, quality, and child-friendly design. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive kit or specific supplies, the key is finding products that match your child’s developing skills while sparking that magical creative joy. Remember that the best art supplies aren’t necessarily the most expensive—they’re the ones your child reaches for again and again, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary creative adventures.

Similar Posts