Looking for the perfect gift to unleash your child’s inner Picasso? A fantastic art easel isn’t just a toy; it’s a gateway to imagination, learning, and hours of screen-free fun. With so many options out there, choosing the right one can feel a bit overwhelming. But don’t you worry! We’ve done the legwork for you, diving deep into the world of children’s art stations to bring you the 7 best easels for kids available today.
From budding toddlers to school-aged artists, we’ve picked out versatile and durable options that cater to different needs and artistic ambitions. These easels aren’t just about drawing; they promote fine motor skills, cognitive development, and even early literacy through playful exploration. Let’s find the ideal art companion for your little one!
Why an Easel is a Must-Have for Every Young Artist
Artistic expression is crucial for a child’s development. An art easel offers a dedicated space for creative endeavors, encouraging kids to experiment with colors, shapes, and ideas. Standing at an easel can also improve posture and strengthen core muscles, while the act of drawing and painting hones hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Plus, a double-sided easel can even foster social skills when multiple children play together!
Our Top Picks: The Best Easels for Kids
Let’s dive into our curated list and help you pick out a wonderful art easel for your child.
1. Tiny Land Easel for Kids, Double-Sided Magnetic Easel,…
This Tiny Land easel is an all-in-one powerhouse designed to fuel creativity and learning for years. What truly makes it stand out is its comprehensive “4-in-1” offering, packing a magnetic blackboard, a magnetic whiteboard, a paper roll, and a slew of accessories into one eco-friendly package. Its thoughtful design allows for height adjustments, meaning this kids’ art easel can literally grow with your child, offering fantastic value over time.
Key Features:
- All-in-one & Multi-function Kids Easel: Magnetic blackboard, magnetic whiteboard, paper roll (16.54″ x 118.11″), 4 dust-free chalks, eraser, marker, 3 painting cups.
- Easy to Assemble & Accompanies Children to Grow: Assembles in just 4 steps, foldable design for storage, 3 adjustable heights (38.58″ – 44″) for ages 3-8.
- Eco-friendly and Durable: Made of natural pine wood, carefully polished for safety and durability, with side fixing strips for stability.
- Versatile & Multi-Purpose: Great for drawing, painting, handwriting practice, and magnetic play.
- Encourages artistic creation and hands-on learning.
Pros:
- Highly versatile with multiple activity options.
- Adjustable height ensures long-term use.
- Made from eco-friendly, durable pine wood.
- Includes a good range of starting accessories.
- Foldable for convenient storage.
Cons:
- Paper roll might be a bit narrow for some larger projects.
- The accessory count, while good, might still require additional purchases for varied art supplies.
User Impressions: Parents love how easy this easel is to assemble and its robust wooden construction. The adjustable height is frequently praised, making it a favorite for growing kids. Many appreciate the dual-sided magnetic boards and the inclusion of initial art supplies, making it a ready-to-use gift.
2. Tiny Land Easel for Kids with 2 Drawing Paper Roll,…
Another excellent offering from Tiny Land, this model focuses on providing an extended paper supply right out of the box, perfect for little ones who love to draw on a grand scale! Like its sibling, it’s crafted from natural pine wood, offering durability and a polished finish. Its emphasis on a larger, continuous paper roll makes it ideal for children who constantly crave a fresh canvas for their masterpieces.
Key Features:
- Eco-friendly and Durable: Made from natural pine wood with polished surfaces and an all-wood storage tray.
- Accompanies Children to Grow: 3 adjustable heights (41″ – 46″) suitable for ages 3-10.
- All in One & 2 Drawing Paper Rolls: Magnetic dry-erase board, chalkboard, locking paper-roll holder, wooden trays, 3 painting cups, and two large paper rolls (total 15″ x 983″).
- Promotes hands-on learning, creative drawing, and early literacy skills.
- Versatile for various activities like drawing, painting, and handwriting.
Pros:
- Comes with an exceptionally long paper roll, minimizing re-stocking.
- Eco-friendly and very durable wooden construction.
- Excellent height adjustability for a longer lifespan.
- Dual-sided magnetic boards offer diverse play.
- Solid wooden storage tray for supplies.
Cons:
- Accessories are similar to other models; some might wish for more variety.
- The height range starts a bit higher than some competitors, potentially less suitable for very short toddlers.
User Impressions: Reviewers consistently highlight the high quality of the wood and the easy assembly. The long paper roll is a huge hit, keeping children engaged for extended periods. Parents also appreciate the stability and the adjustable height, ensuring it remains a favorite for several years.
3. Melissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Art Easel – Dry-Erase…
Melissa & Doug are renowned for their quality children’s toys, and this deluxe standing art easel lives up to that reputation. It offers a classic, sturdy wooden frame that’s both easy to assemble and folds flat for convenient storage. Its design focuses on the core art experience with a dry-erase board, chalkboard, and a paper-roll holder, making it a timeless choice for budding artists and a great option among the best easels for kids.
Key Features:
- Kids Wooden Standing Art Easel: Includes dry-erase board, chalkboard, locking paper-roll holder, child-safe paper cutter, 4 easy-clip grips, and 2 large plastic trays.
- Helps Build Fine Motor Skills: Ideal surfaces for practicing first letters, words, and proper pencil grip.
- Easy to Assemble: Sturdy wooden frame, folds flat for storage, and is height adjustable.
- Ships in Certified Frustration-Free Packaging.
- Made with FSC-certified materials (for new inventory).
Pros:
- Trusted brand known for durability and quality.
- Folds flat for excellent space-saving storage.
- Includes a paper cutter for clean art removal.
- Height-adjustable for growing children.
- Supports fine motor skill development.
Cons:
- Art supplies (paper, paint, brushes, chalk) are sold separately.
- Plastic trays, while practical, might not be as durable as wooden ones over time.
User Impressions: This easel is a consistent favorite, with many praising its robust construction and ease of assembly. The ability to fold it flat for storage is a huge plus for many families. Parents also appreciate the child-safe paper cutter and the large trays for holding various art supplies.
4. Tiny Land Easel for Kids, Double-Sided Magnetic Easel with…
This Tiny Land easel is a feature-rich marvel, perfect for families seeking maximum utility and educational value. It takes the “all-in-one” concept to the next level by including not just the standard dual boards and paper roll, but also colorful magnetic letters and a math set. This integration of art and academics makes it a standout choice for holistic child development, truly earning its spot as one of the best easels for kids for learning.
Key Features:
- All in One & Multi-function Kids Easel: Magnetic blackboard, magnetic whiteboard, 6 dust-free chalks, eraser, 4 markers, paper roll (16.54″ x 118.11″), 3 painting cups, 4 clamps, AND colorful magnetic letters & math set.
- Easy to Assemble & Accompany Children to Grow: Quick assembly, foldable, 3 adjustable heights (38.58″ – 44″) for ages 3-8.
- Eco-friendly and Durable: Made of natural pine wood, carefully polished for safety and durability, with side fixing strips for stability.
- Versatile & Multi-Purpose: Ideal for drawing, painting, handwriting, and interactive learning with magnets.
- Encourages artistic creation, fine motor skills, and early academic learning.
Pros:
- Includes an extensive set of accessories, including magnetic letters and numbers.
- Adjustable height allows for long-term use.
- Durable and eco-friendly pine wood construction.
- Foldable design for convenient storage.
- Offers significant educational play opportunities beyond just art.
Cons:
- With so many accessories, keeping them organized might be a challenge for some.
- The height adjustment range, while good, is slightly less than some other models.
User Impressions: This easel receives high marks for its comprehensive accessory package, especially the magnetic letters and math set, which parents find incredibly engaging for their children. Its sturdy build and ease of assembly are frequently praised, making it a great value proposition.
5. STEAM Life Large Art Easel for Kids, Double-Sided 4In1…
The STEAM Life Large Art Easel is engineered for both fun and education, perfectly aligning with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) principles. It’s a fantastic gift option, coming fully loaded with everything a young artist needs, including magnetic letters and numbers, making it ready for play right out of the box. Its focus on educational development and problem-solving through art makes it a top contender.
Key Features:
- Perfect Present, Everything Included: Double-sided (chalkboard & magnetic dry-erase), comes with magnetic numbers/letters, chalk, markers, and erasers.
- Sturdy Double-Sided Kids Easel: Designed to keep two or more kids busy simultaneously, promoting social interaction.
- Benefits for Your Child (STEAM Life Educational Product): Improves fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities. All accessories are non-toxic and safe.
- Easy to Assemble: Takes less than 5 minutes to set up.
- STEAM Life Promise: Dedicated to safe, educational, interactive, and fun toys.
Pros:
- Includes a full set of accessories, perfect for gifting.
- Designed for multiple children to use at once, fostering social play.
- Focuses on educational benefits like fine motor skills and problem-solving.
- Quick and easy assembly.
- Non-toxic and safe materials.
Cons:
- Specific height adjustment range is not detailed, only “just the right height for growing artists.”
- May not fold as compactly as some other models.
User Impressions: Parents appreciate the all-inclusive nature of this easel, noting that it’s an instant hit with kids. The quick assembly and the educational value of the magnetic letters and numbers are frequently highlighted. Many find it to be a sturdy and engaging easel for toddlers and preschoolers.
6. Melissa & Doug Deluxe Double-Sided Tabletop Easel, Arts &…
For those with limited space or who prefer a more portable art solution, the Melissa & Doug Deluxe Double-Sided Tabletop Easel is an absolute gem. This compact yet feature-packed easel brings the joy of a standing easel to any table surface. It’s perfect for shared spaces or for taking art on the go, making it one of the most versatile easels for kids who love to create anywhere.
Key Features:
- Sturdy wooden double-sided tabletop art easel that folds flat to store.
- Magnetic dry-erase board on one side, chalkboard on the other.
- Built-in wooden paper roll holder with paper guide and tear bar for 12″ paper rolls.
- Includes a 50-foot long paper roll, dry-erase marker, 5 pieces of colored chalk, eraser, and 36 letter and number magnets.
- Suitable for ages 3+.
Pros:
- Excellent for small spaces or travel due to its tabletop design and fold-flat feature.
- Includes a comprehensive set of art supplies and magnetic letters/numbers.
- Durable wooden construction from a trusted brand.
- Features a paper guide and tear bar for neat artwork.
- Dual-sided for versatile play options.
Cons:
- Not a standing easel, which might not be preferred by all children or for all activities.
- Paper roll is specific to 12″ size, potentially limiting choices for refills.
User Impressions: Customers love the portability and compact size of this easel, making it ideal for smaller rooms or even taking to grandma’s house. The inclusion of magnetic letters and numbers, along with the art supplies, is highly praised. Many find it to be a high-quality, sturdy option for tabletop art activities.
7. Delta Children MySize Kids Double-Sided Storage Easel…
The Delta Children MySize Easel strikes a great balance between functionality and practical storage. It’s designed specifically with young artists aged 3 to 6 in mind, offering a comfortable height and dual art surfaces. What truly sets it apart are the two integrated fabric storage bins, making cleanup and organization a breeze – a feature that busy parents will surely appreciate!
Key Features:
- Age Range: Recommended for ages 3 to 6.
- Double the Fun: Features a chalkboard side and a magnetic, dry-erase whiteboard side.
- What’s Included: Easel, two fabric storage bins, and a pull-down paper roll with 33 feet of paper.
- Easily Store Supplies: Two convenient fabric storage bins keep crayons, markers, extra paper, or toys within reach.
- Quality Craftsmanship: Made from strong wood, durable and built for years of use.
- Ideal Size: Assembled Dimensions: 21.625″ W x 20.5″ D x 40.75″ H Inches.
Pros:
- Integrated fabric storage bins are excellent for organization and tidiness.
- Appropriate size for the target age group (3-6 years).
- Durable wooden construction ensures longevity.
- Includes a pull-down paper roll and dual art surfaces.
- Easy to assemble.
Cons:
- Not height-adjustable, limiting its use as a child grows.
- Fewer accessories included compared to some other models.
User Impressions: Parents rave about the storage bins, which are a major convenience for keeping art supplies tidy. The easel’s sturdy build and perfect size for preschoolers are also highly praised. It’s seen as a practical and attractive addition to a child’s play space.
FAQ: Finding the Perfect Easel for Your Little Artist
Q1: What age is best to introduce an easel to my child?
A: Most easels are suitable for children aged 3 and up. At this age, kids typically have developed enough fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination to enjoy drawing and painting on a vertical surface. Many easels are adjustable to grow with your child for several years.
Q2: What’s the difference between a chalkboard and a dry-erase board, and which is better?
A: A chalkboard uses chalk, which can be messy but offers a unique sensory experience. A dry-erase board uses markers, which are cleaner but might require more supervision with very young children to prevent drawing on other surfaces. Many of the best easels for kids offer both sides, giving your child the best of both worlds!
Q3: Are magnetic easels good for learning?
A: Absolutely! Magnetic easels are fantastic for early learning. They allow children to play with magnetic letters, numbers, and shapes, which can aid in literacy, numeracy, and imaginative play. It adds another dimension to their creative and educational development.
Q4: What features should I look for when buying an easel for my child?
A: Consider these:
* Adjustable Height: Ensures the easel grows with your child.
* Double-Sided: Allows two children to play simultaneously or offers versatile options (chalkboard/dry-erase).
* Storage: Trays, bins, or shelves help keep art supplies organized.
* Paper Roll Holder: Great for continuous drawing and painting.
* Durability: Wooden frames are generally more sturdy and long-lasting.
* Safety: Check for non-toxic materials and smooth, sanded edges.
Q5: How do I clean a kids’ easel effectively?
A: For a dry-erase board, simply use a dry-erase cleaner or a damp cloth. For a chalkboard, a damp cloth works well, or a specialized chalkboard cleaner for deeper cleaning. For the frame, a mild soap and water solution can be used. Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
Q6: Can an easel really help with my child’s development?
A: Yes! Using an easel helps develop fine motor skills (grasping pencils, brushes), hand-eye coordination, creativity, problem-solving, and even self-expression. Standing at an easel can also improve posture and core strength. It’s a fantastic tool for holistic child development.
Q7: Should I get a standing easel or a tabletop easel?
A: Standing easels are great for allowing children to stand and move freely, engaging larger muscle groups and promoting gross motor skills. Tabletop easels are excellent for smaller spaces, portability, and for children who prefer to sit while they create. The choice often comes down to your space availability and your child’s preference.
Ready to Unleash Their Inner Artist?
There you have it – our comprehensive guide to the 7 best easels for kids! Each of these options offers something special, whether it’s incredible versatility, robust construction, or thoughtful educational additions. Investing in a good art easel is an investment in your child’s imagination, learning, and self-expression. Pick the one that best fits your little one’s budding artistic ambitions, and watch their creativity soar!