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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
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.
