Drawing is more than just a fun pastime; it’s a fantastic way for kids to express themselves, develop fine motor skills, and boost their creativity. Whether your little one is a budding Picasso or just loves to doodle, finding the right tools can make all the difference. From high-tech light boards to classic sketch pads and inspiring ‘how-to’ books, there’s a world of options out there to spark their imagination.
We’ve scoured the market to find the best drawing for kids products available today. We’re talking about items that are not only engaging but also help nurture artistic talent and provide hours of screen-free fun. Let’s dive into our top picks!
Why Encourage Drawing in Kids?
Before we jump into the products, let’s quickly touch on why drawing is so beneficial for children:
- Boosts Creativity: It’s a direct outlet for their imagination.
- Improves Fine Motor Skills: Holding pencils, tracing lines, and coloring all strengthen hand-eye coordination.
- Enhances Problem-Solving: Kids learn to translate ideas into visuals, experimenting with shapes and colors.
- Fosters Self-Expression: A safe way to communicate emotions and ideas.
- Builds Confidence: Completing an art project gives them a sense of accomplishment.
Now, let’s explore some of the coolest and best drawing for kids essentials that are sure to be a hit!
Our Top 10 Picks for the Best Drawing for Kids
1. Crayola Ultimate Light Board – White, Kids Drawing Tablet,…
This isn’t just a drawing board; it’s a glowing canvas that brings kids’ creations to life! The Crayola Ultimate Light Board lets young artists draw with special gel markers and then illuminates their designs with dazzling light effects. It even doubles as a tracing pad, making it super versatile for all sorts of creative endeavors. It’s a fantastic way to encourage artistic exploration with a touch of magic.
Key Features:
– LED Drawing Board with 3 Light Effects
– 1 Removable Tracing Panel
– 6 Mini Washable Gel Markers
– Built-In Kickstand for easy display
– Reusable drawing surface that wipes clean
Pros:
– Engaging light effects make drawing more exciting
– Doubles as a tracing pad for varied use
– Washable markers for easy cleanup
– Portable design with marker storage
– Promotes fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination
Cons:
– Requires 3 AA batteries (not included)
– Can be a bit bulky for very small hands
User Impressions:
Parents rave about how captivating this light board is, with many mentioning their children spending hours creating glowing masterpieces. The tracing feature is a big hit, making it easy for kids to draw their favorite characters. Some noted that having to buy batteries separately was a minor inconvenience.
2. The Drawing Book for Kids: 365 Daily Things to Draw,…
Sometimes, kids just need a little inspiration to get started, and this book delivers a whole year’s worth! “The Drawing Book for Kids: 365 Daily Things to Draw” is packed with simple, engaging prompts and ideas, encouraging consistent practice and boundless creativity. It’s perfect for those who want to draw something new every day without feeling overwhelmed.
Key Features:
– 365 daily drawing prompts
– Step-by-step instructions for various objects
– Wide variety of subjects to keep things interesting
– Encourages daily artistic practice
– Simple, easy-to-follow format for young artists
Pros:
– Provides a structured approach to drawing
– Helps spark creativity when ideas run low
– No additional supplies needed beyond a pencil and paper
– Builds drawing confidence over time
– Great for fostering a drawing habit
Cons:
– Physical book, so drawings can’t be easily erased or undone
– Might be too structured for kids who prefer completely freeform drawing
User Impressions:
Customers love how this book eliminates the “I don’t know what to draw” dilemma, providing endless inspiration. They appreciate the clear, simple instructions, making it accessible for a wide age range. Many mention it’s a great tool for quiet, independent play.
3. Crayola Light Up Tracing Pad – Blue, Drawing & Tracing…
The Crayola Light Up Tracing Pad is a classic for a reason – it makes tracing and creating so much fun! With its powerful LED light, it illuminates images, allowing kids to effortlessly trace and transfer their favorite pictures. It’s not just for tracing; it’s a gateway to exploring 2D animation, sketching, and more, making it a brilliant piece of art equipment for budding artists.
Key Features:
– Powerful LED light illuminates images for easy tracing
– Includes Graphite Pencil, 12 Short Colored Pencils, 10 Tracing Sheets, 10 Blank Sheets
– No-slip frame and uniform lighting
– Over 100 traceable images available online
– Lightweight and portable design
Pros:
– Makes tracing simple and fun for kids
– Comes with all necessary initial supplies
– Encourages exploration of various art styles
– Great for developing precision and control
– Easily accessible online content for continuous inspiration
Cons:
– Requires 3 AA Batteries (sold separately)
– Primarily focused on tracing, less on freehand creation
User Impressions:
Parents often highlight how this tracing pad is a hit with kids who love characters or intricate designs, as it helps them create impressive drawings. They appreciate the included starter pack of pencils and paper. Some wish it came with rechargeable batteries.
4. Smart Sketcher 2.0 Projector, Drawing and Tracing Projector…
Take drawing to the next level with the Smart Sketcher 2.0 Projector! This innovative device projects images onto paper, guiding kids through step-by-step drawing tutorials. It’s app-enabled, allowing for endless content and even letting kids project their own photos to trace! It’s a fantastic educational toy that fosters both artistic skills and cognitive development.
Key Features:
– Projects images for easy tracing and step-by-step tutorials
– App-enabled via Bluetooth for personalized drawings and content
– Over 60 pre-loaded images
– Expandable content library with creativity pack cartridges
– Promotes hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills
Pros:
– Interactive and engaging learning experience
– Allows kids to draw anything from their phone or tablet
– Encourages independent play and problem-solving
– Educational and helps develop motor skills
– Provides structured guidance for complex drawings
Cons:
– Can be more expensive than traditional drawing tools
– Requires a smart device for full functionality
User Impressions:
Reviewers are impressed with how much this projector helps kids learn to draw complex images with ease. The app connectivity is a major plus, offering limitless tracing possibilities. Many noted that it significantly boosts a child’s confidence in their artistic abilities.
5. Kids’ Sketch Pad (50 perforated sheets of high quality…
Sometimes, all a budding artist needs is a blank canvas and the freedom to create. This high-quality Kids’ Sketch Pad offers 50 perforated sheets of thick paper, perfect for any medium – crayons, markers, colored pencils, or even light watercolors. It’s an essential staple for any young artist’s collection, providing ample space for doodling, sketching, and experimenting.
Key Features:
– 50 perforated sheets for easy tearing
– High-quality, thick paper (suitable for various mediums)
– Large size for ample drawing space
– Durable construction to withstand enthusiastic use
– Acid-free paper for long-lasting artwork
Pros:
– Versatile for use with many different art supplies
– Perforated pages make it easy to display or share artwork
– Plenty of sheets for extensive creative sessions
– Encourages free expression and imaginative play
– Provides a traditional, tactile drawing experience
Cons:
– Requires separate purchase of drawing utensils
– No guided activities or prompts
User Impressions:
Parents appreciate the sturdy quality of the paper, mentioning that markers don’t bleed through easily. The perforated pages are a frequent highlight, making it simple for kids to remove and proudly display their creations. It’s considered a reliable, go-to for everyday artistic endeavors.
6. Art for Kids: Drawing: The Only Drawing Book You’ll Ever…
For kids who are serious about learning to draw, “Art for Kids: Drawing” is an excellent resource. This comprehensive guide goes beyond simple tracing, offering foundational drawing techniques and artistic principles in an accessible way. It covers various styles and concepts, helping children develop a deeper understanding of the art form and cultivate long-term skills.
Key Features:
– Comprehensive drawing lessons for kids
– Covers various art techniques and principles
– Suitable for different skill levels
– Focuses on foundational drawing skills
– Explores different subjects and styles
Pros:
– Helps develop advanced drawing abilities
– Encourages a deeper understanding of art
– Provides structured learning for serious young artists
– Can be a long-term learning resource
– Builds confidence through skill development
Cons:
– May be too detailed for very young children
– Requires more focus and patience than simple activity books
User Impressions:
Customers praise this book for its thoroughness, noting that it teaches kids “how to draw” rather than just “what to draw.” They found the lessons easy to follow for older children and that it genuinely improved their kids’ artistic capabilities.
7. How To Draw Everything: 600 Simple Step By Step Drawings…
If variety is the spice of life, then “How To Draw Everything” is a feast for young artists! Boasting 600 simple step-by-step drawings, this book offers an incredible range of subjects, from animals to vehicles to everyday objects. It’s perfect for kids who love to draw new things constantly and enjoy the satisfaction of quickly completing a drawing.
Key Features:
– 600 simple step-by-step drawing tutorials
– Vast range of subjects (animals, objects, people, etc.)
– Easy-to-follow visual instructions
– Encourages quick learning and immediate gratification
– Great for expanding a child’s drawing repertoire
Pros:
– Endless drawing ideas in one book
– Boosts confidence with achievable drawing outcomes
– Helps develop observational skills
– Perfect for short, engaging drawing sessions
– Makes drawing complex objects seem easy
Cons:
– Focuses more on copying than original creation
– May not delve deeply into advanced techniques
User Impressions:
Reviewers love the sheer volume of drawing ideas, ensuring kids never run out of things to create. The simple, visual steps are a big hit, making it easy for children to follow independently. Many reported it was a go-to book for quiet time.
8. Sketch Book for Kids, 9″ x 12″ Kid Sketchbook, 100…
This Fuxi Sketch Book for Kids is designed with young artists in mind, offering 100 thick, high-quality sheets in a convenient 9″ x 12″ size. Its top spiral binding makes it easy for both left and right-handed children to use, and each page is easily tearable for sharing or displaying their masterpieces. It’s an ideal canvas for all their colorful creations.
Key Features:
– 100 sheets of thick 73lb / 120gsm paper
– 9″ x 12″ size for ample drawing space
– Top spiral binding for ease of use by all
– Perforated pages for easy removal
– Suitable for colored pencils, crayons, and markers
Pros:
– High-quality, thick paper prevents bleed-through
– Abundance of pages for long-term use
– Convenient spiral binding and tear-out pages
– Versatile for various art mediums
– Designed by artists to inspire creativity
Cons:
– Plain sketchbook, no included tools or guides
– May be too heavy for very young children to carry around easily
User Impressions:
Customers consistently praise the paper quality, stating it holds up well to various mediums and doesn’t tear easily. The spiral binding is frequently mentioned as a thoughtful design choice for kids. It’s seen as excellent value for money given the number of sheets.
9. The How to Draw Book for Kids: A Simple Step-by-Step…
This drawing book is all about making art approachable and fun for younger children. “The How to Draw Book for Kids” focuses on simple, step-by-step instructions that build from basic shapes, allowing even preschoolers to feel successful. It’s an excellent tool for introducing foundational drawing skills and boosting their artistic confidence with quick, rewarding projects.
Key Features:
– Simple, kid-friendly step-by-step drawing instructions
– Focuses on building drawings from basic shapes
– Age-appropriate subjects and illustrations
– Encourages early drawing skills and motor development
– Designed to be easily followed by young children
Pros:
– Highly accessible for young beginners
– Builds fundamental drawing techniques
– Quick and satisfying projects keep kids engaged
– Boosts confidence with achievable results
– Great for independent learning and quiet time
Cons:
– May be too simplistic for older or more advanced artists
– Limited in scope compared to comprehensive art books
User Impressions:
Parents commend this book for its clear, concise instructions that allow their younger children to draw recognizable objects. They reported a significant boost in their kids’ confidence and enjoyment of drawing. It’s frequently recommended for ages 4-8.
10. KTEBO® 2 Pack 10 Inch LCD Writing Tablet for Kids,…
For mess-free drawing on the go, the KTEBO 2 Pack LCD Writing Tablets are an absolute lifesaver. This set includes two 10-inch tablets (one blue, one pink), offering endless creative possibilities without any paper waste or ink stains. They’re perfect for doodling, practicing letters, counting, or just keeping little hands busy, making them an ideal travel companion for kids ages 3-12.
Key Features:
– Two 10-inch LCD writing tablets (blue and pink)
– Pressure-sensitive flexible screen with no radiation or glare
– Ultra-thin and lightweight design (0.27-inch, 5oz)
– Lock button to save screen or clear with one touch
– Battery-powered (CR2025, included)
Pros:
– Mess-free and paperless drawing experience
– Protects eyesight with no blue light or glare
– Highly portable for travel and on-the-go fun
– Durable and reusable, reducing waste
– Great for practicing letters, numbers, and drawing
Cons:
– Monochrome display (no colors)
– Requires battery replacement over time
User Impressions:
Customers absolutely adore these tablets for their mess-free convenience and portability. They’re a huge hit for car rides, restaurants, and keeping kids entertained quietly. Many praised the eye-friendly screen and the value of getting two tablets in a pack.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids’ Drawing
Q1: What are the main benefits of encouraging drawing in children?
A1: Drawing offers numerous benefits, including enhancing fine motor skills, boosting creativity and imagination, developing problem-solving abilities, fostering self-expression, and building confidence as children see their ideas come to life on paper.
Q2: How do I choose the best drawing tools for my child’s age?
A2: For toddlers and preschoolers (ages 2-5), chunky crayons, large paper, and simple drawing tablets are great for developing grip. For elementary-aged kids (6-10), tracing pads, step-by-step drawing books, and quality sketch pads with various mediums are ideal. Older kids and pre-teens (10+) might appreciate drawing projectors, comprehensive art instruction books, and more advanced art sets.
Q3: Are drawing tablets (like LCD writing tablets) good for kids?
A3: Yes! LCD writing tablets are excellent for kids. They offer a mess-free, paperless drawing experience, are highly portable, and often feature eye-friendly screens. They’re great for casual doodling, practicing writing, and quick sketches, though they typically offer a monochrome display.
Q4: How can I encourage my child to draw more if they seem hesitant?
A4: Make it fun and low-pressure! Offer a variety of art supplies, draw alongside them, provide drawing prompts (like in ‘how-to’ books), praise their effort rather than just the outcome, and display their artwork proudly. Avoid making it feel like a chore or correcting their drawings too much.
Q5: What’s the difference between a tracing pad and a drawing projector?
A5: A tracing pad uses an illuminated surface (like an LED light board) to make images beneath a blank sheet of paper visible, allowing kids to trace directly. A drawing projector, like the Smart Sketcher, projects an image from above onto a piece of paper, allowing the child to trace the projected lines. Projectors often offer more interactive features and app connectivity.
Q6: How can I keep art supplies organized and mess-free?
A6: Designate a specific “art spot” and use clear storage containers, caddies, or pencil cases to keep supplies tidy. For mess-free options, consider washable markers, paint sticks, or digital drawing tablets. Using a mat or old newspapers under their work area can also help contain messes.
Q7: Are there specific drawing activities suitable for toddlers?
A7: Absolutely! For toddlers, focus on sensory exploration and large movements. Jumbo crayons, chunky washable markers, finger paints (non-toxic), and large sheets of paper or even cardboard are perfect. Simple scribbling, making big shapes, and exploring textures are great starting points.
Q8: What kind of paper is best for kids’ drawing?
A8: For everyday drawing, simple printer paper or construction paper is fine. For markers and crayons, a heavier paper (like 70-100gsm) helps prevent bleed-through. Sketch pads designed for kids often have durable, slightly textured paper suitable for various dry mediums.
Ready, Set, Draw!
Equipping your child with the best drawing for kids tools and resources is more than just buying them a toy; it’s an investment in their development and a gateway to a world of creativity. Whether they prefer the guided structure of a ‘how-to’ book, the illuminated magic of a light board, or the freedom of a blank sketch pad, there’s something on this list to inspire every young artist. So go ahead, pick a favorite, and watch their imagination unfold!