Best Art Supplies for Small Children: Easels

From the first set of crayons and finger paints, we know kids love art; and sometimes, we discover that some of our little ones are Da Vincis and Rembrandts. Nothing can inspire young hands than having the right creative tools. Other than paints, pastels and clays, one of the most fundamental things for a young artist is to have the right tools- including a kid friendly easel.

The Basics

Today, there are so many types of easels available for children. The key is to look for easels that are sturdy, made of kid friendly materials, and are easy to clean.

Consider that many easels are made of metal, wood, plastics or a mix of these three items. Most have trays that can hold art supplies and that can be removed for easy cleaning. Many easels now offer double side surfaces so that kids can share their fun art activities with siblings or friends. While there are countless brands and types, here are a few great options for small children from which parents to choose.

Little Tykes Double Easel

The Little Tykes brand is one of the most reliable and the same can be said for the sturdy plastic Little Tykes Double Easel. This easel is double sided and can be folded for easy storage. On one side, there is a chalkboard and on the other side, a large clip for paper pads. Not like the traditional adult easels which hold canvases, this one is perfect for young kids who want to simply draw with the basic chalks, pens, and pencils. It's easy to clean tray also holds various supplies which ensure that art time is easy time. While the easel comes with chalk and eraser, you can buy companion items, such as paints and markers, separately. Great for ages 2 to 6 years.

Crayola Quikflip 2-Sided Easel

When it comes to art, Crayola is a trusted name. So, it's not surprising that the Crayola Qwikflip 2-Sided Easel is great young artists. Made of sturdy plastic, this easel doubles as an art making surface and a learning/activity tool. The easel has a dry erase surface which doubles as a dry erase/magnetic board. The other side has clips for paper and painting activities. The easel comes with lots of extra supplies, such as paint and magnetic letters and numbers. With Crayola offering high quality supplies, you can find compatible markers, pencils and other supplies that can be bought separately. A backup option is Crayola's Magnetic Double Easel. Great for ages 3 to 6.

Step 2 - Easel for Two

Step 2 offers great products and their Easel for Two is no exception. Framed in sturdy plastic, the Step 2 easel has a metal dry erase board on one side and a traditional chalk board on the other. Each side has clips for holding paper. This easel comes with magnetic letters, numbers and signs, but does not include art supplies. It is easy to fold and has an adequately sized tray for holding art supplies. Great for ages 3 to 8.

For busy hands, there is art and for parents, there are so many quality options for art supplies and tools. Easels can help your child focus their play and share time as well as be a handy place for your kids to store their art supplies. Have fun creating and sharing.