Are you looking to spark your child’s creativity without the headache of permanent stains and difficult cleanup? Tempera paint is an absolute game-changer for little artists! It’s vibrant, easy to use, and best of all, often washable – making it the perfect choice for budding Picassos and tiny Kandinskys. Finding the best tempera paint for kids means looking for quality, safety, washability, and of course, a dazzling array of colors.
We know how overwhelming the options can be, so we’ve done the hard work for you. We’ve meticulously reviewed some of the top contenders on the market to help you pick the perfect set for your child’s next masterpiece. Get ready to dive into the world of colorful fun with our top picks for the best tempera paint for kids!
Our Top Picks for the Best Tempera Paint for Kids
Here’s our detailed look at the paints that promise to bring vibrant joy and easy cleanup to your home or classroom.
1. Cra-Z-Art Washable Tempera Paint Bulk Pack 10ct, Assorted
This Cra-Z-Art bulk pack is a fantastic choice for parents and teachers who need a reliable, high-quality set of paints for multiple projects or a group of kids. With 10 classic, vibrant colors in an exclusive Amazon bundle, you’re set for endless creative sessions, from birthday parties to everyday craft time. It’s a dependable option from a brand with decades of experience, ensuring both fun and safety.
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Key Features:
- 10 classic finger paint colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, pink, brown, black, and white.
- Exclusive Amazon Bundle for convenience.
- Perfect for parties, holiday gifts, and craft time.
- Cra-Z-Art boasts 30 years of experience in craft supplies.
- Made in the USA, washable, and non-toxic.
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Pros:
- Excellent value with a generous 10-color bulk pack.
- Trusted brand known for quality.
- Wide range of classic colors for basic art projects.
- Safe and non-toxic, ideal for young children.
- Easy cleanup thanks to its washable formula.
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Cons:
- Colors are traditional, without unique textures like glitter or metallic.
- Bottles might be smaller than some other bulk options.
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User Impressions: Parents and teachers love this set for its straightforward color variety and the peace of mind that comes with a washable, non-toxic formula. It’s often praised as a go-to for classroom supplies and for keeping kids entertained.
2. Colorations Paraben-Free Washable Tempera Paint for Kids
Colorations takes safety a step further with their paraben-free and allergen-friendly tempera paint. This set is a godsend for families with sensitivities, offering bright, rich colors without common allergens like latex, dairy, or gluten. Not only is it safe, but its vibrant, opaque formula works beautifully on a variety of surfaces, drying without chipping or cracking, ensuring your kids’ masterpieces truly last.
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Key Features:
- 6 vibrant colors: blue, green, orange, red, white, and yellow.
- Each bottle contains 8 fluid ounces.
- Made in the USA, Paraben-Free, and certified with the AP Seal for safety.
- Vivid opaque colors that won’t chip, flake, or crack when dry.
- Highly versatile for use on paper, canvas, wood, cardboard, and more.
- Meets ASTM-D4236 standards; free from Latex, Dairy, Casein, Egg, Gluten, Peanut, Tree Nuts, and Soy.
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Pros:
- Excellent choice for children with allergies or sensitivities.
- Paraben-free for extra peace of mind.
- Strong, opaque colors that dry durably.
- Large 8oz bottles provide good value.
- Can be used indoors or outdoors with various tools.
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Cons:
- Limited to 6 colors, which might restrict some creative projects.
- Fewer unique color options compared to larger sets.
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User Impressions: Many users specifically seek out this paint for its paraben-free and allergen-friendly claims, finding it a safe and reliable option. The vibrant colors and good coverage are also frequently highlighted.
3. Colorations – SWT16 Simply Washable Tempera Paints, 16 fl oz
If you’re looking for ample supply and a wider color palette, this Colorations Simply Washable set is a fantastic option. With 11 vibrant colors in large 16oz bottles, it’s perfect for bustling classrooms or homes where art projects are a daily occurrence. What truly sets this paint apart is its reliable washability and allergen-free formula, so you can let your kids unleash their creativity without worrying about stubborn stains or common sensitivities.
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Key Features:
- 11 vibrant, creamy, and opaque colors in 16 oz bottles: black, blue, brown, green, magenta, orange, purple, red, white, turquoise, and yellow.
- Designed to wash easily from most surfaces.
- Dries to a vivid matte finish and resists cracking.
- Safe, ASTM-D4236 standard and AP Seal certified.
- Free from common allergens: latex, dairy & casein, egg, gluten, peanut & tree nut, or soy.
- Made in the USA.
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Pros:
- Large 16oz bottles offer great value and longevity.
- Extensive color range, including unique shades like magenta and turquoise.
- Highly praised for its genuine washability.
- Allergen-free and non-toxic for safe use.
- Versatile for use on many absorbent surfaces and with various tools.
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Cons:
- The larger quantity might be excessive for very infrequent use.
- Price point is higher than smaller sets, but good value per ounce.
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User Impressions: Customers rave about the generous bottle sizes and the rich, true colors. Its reliable washability is a huge plus for parents and teachers who appreciate easy cleanup, making it a top contender for the best tempera paint for kids in bulk.
4. JOYIN Washable Tempera Paint Set for Kids 42PCS
Prepare for an explosion of color and texture with the JOYIN 42-piece tempera paint set! This isn’t just paint; it’s a complete art studio in a box, featuring an astounding 42 vibrant colors across 5 different texture types – classic, neon, pastel, metallic, and glitter. Plus, it comes with brushes, palettes, and even a cleaning bucket, making it an incredible all-in-one kit for any young artist eager to experiment.
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Key Features:
- 42 vibrant and unique colors (2 fl oz bottles) with 5 texture types.
- Includes 15 brushes, 4 palettes, 1 foldable brush, and 1 cleaning bucket.
- Transparent, easy-squeeze bottles with flip-caps.
- Fantastic crackless and flakeless texture after painting.
- ASTM-D4236 approved, kid-friendly, and non-toxic.
- Easily washes out with soap and water.
- Great for wood painting, chalkboard, canvas, finger painting, and more.
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Pros:
- Unbeatable variety of colors and textures for endless creativity.
- Comprehensive kit includes all necessary accessories.
- Unique textured paints (metallic, glitter) add extra fun.
- Easy-to-use squeeze bottles prevent mess and drying out.
- Highly washable and non-toxic.
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Cons:
- Individual bottles are smaller (2 fl oz), which might run out quickly for popular colors.
- The sheer number of options could be overwhelming for very young toddlers.
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User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by the sheer volume and variety this set offers. It’s a huge hit as a gift and for group activities, with parents loving the inclusion of brushes and palettes for an instant art station.
5. Crayola Washable Kids Paint (6ct), Essential Preschool
Crayola is a household name for a reason, and their Washable Kids Paint upholds that reputation. This 6-count set offers bright, bold colors with unique names like Fuchsia and Teal, inspiring imaginative projects. It’s specifically designed for kids aged 3 and up, providing smooth, creamy paint that blends easily and washes cleanly from skin and most washable clothing – a huge relief for parents and educators.
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Key Features:
- 6 bold colors: Yellow, Green, Yellow Orange, Red Orange, Fuchsia, Teal, and Blue Violet.
- Smooth, creamy color that blends easily.
- Resealable caps to keep paint fresh.
- Washable from skin and most washable clothing.
- Safe & non-toxic, ideal for kids ages 3 and up.
- Perfect for preschool and elementary school projects.
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Pros:
- Trusted brand with a long history of quality art supplies.
- Unique and vibrant color palette beyond the basics.
- Extremely washable, making cleanup a breeze.
- Smooth texture that’s easy for little hands to work with.
- Non-toxic and safe for young children.
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Cons:
- Smaller set with only 6 colors.
- Bottle size isn’t specified but is typically smaller in these types of sets.
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User Impressions: Crayola’s reputation for reliability and washability shines through. Users appreciate the vibrant, blendable colors and consistently report that it washes off easily, making it a stress-free choice for kids’ art time.
6. 4E’s Novelty Washable Tempera Paint Set for Kids – 10 (16oz Bottles)
For serious art enthusiasts or busy classrooms, the 4E’s Novelty Washable Tempera Paint Set delivers big. You get 10 bright, classic colors, each in a generous 16oz bottle, ensuring you won’t run out mid-project. This set is specifically highlighted for its “tempura paints for children” suitability and is lauded for being non-toxic and easily washable – a dream come true for teachers and parents who deal with high-volume painting.
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Key Features:
- 10 bright washable tempera paint colors: red, blue, yellow, green, pink, black, white, orange, purple, and brown.
- Each bottle is a large 16oz.
- Safe, non-toxic, and easily washes off skin and clothes.
- Easy squeeze bottles with flip-top lids for mess-free use and storage.
- Ideal for school paint, DIY craft fun, finger paint, or hand craft paint.
- Perfect for crafts, classrooms, and art projects.
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Pros:
- Excellent value with large 16oz bottles in 10 classic colors.
- Truly washable formula for easy cleanup.
- Non-toxic and safe for kids aged 4-8.
- Convenient flip-top lids prevent leaks and messes.
- Great for bulk use in classrooms or daycare centers.
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Cons:
- Basic color selection, fewer unique shades.
- The large volume might be overkill for casual, infrequent home use.
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User Impressions: This set is a favorite among teachers and group leaders due to its bulk size and dependable washability. The easy-squeeze bottles also get high marks for preventing spills and making it simple for kids to use independently.
7. Crayola Washable Paint for Kids (12ct), Teacher Supplies
Rounding out our list is another fantastic option from Crayola, geared especially for “Teacher Supplies” but equally brilliant for home use. This 12-count set features large 16-ounce, easy-squeeze bottles filled with a rich array of vibrant colors, from standard blues and yellows to unique shades like Magenta and Peach. It’s designed to be long-lasting and, of course, completely washable, making it a smart investment for any serious art space.
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Key Features:
- 12 different vibrant colors in 16-ounce, easy-squeeze paint bottles.
- Colors include Green, Yellow, White, Red, Magenta, Turquoise, Violet, Brown, Blue, Peach, Orange, and Black.
- Perfect for school art projects, birthday parties, and everyday arts and crafts.
- Teacher and classroom must-have.
- Long-lasting, richly pigmented hues.
- Water-based paints wash from skin and most washable clothing.
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Pros:
- Large 16oz bottles offer exceptional value and longevity.
- Wide selection of 12 vibrant colors, including unique shades.
- Trusted Crayola brand ensures quality and safety.
- Highly washable from skin and clothes.
- Easy-squeeze bottles are convenient for kids and adults.
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Cons:
- A larger upfront investment due to the bulk quantity.
- Might be too much paint for a single child with very occasional use.
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User Impressions: This Crayola set receives high praise for its bulk quantity and classic reliability. Teachers particularly appreciate the longevity and the range of colors, while parents love that it’s truly washable and keeps kids engaged for hours.
Why Tempera Paint is Perfect for Kids’ Art
Choosing the right art supplies for children can make all the difference in fostering their creativity. Tempera paint stands out as an excellent option for several reasons:
- Non-Toxic and Safe: Most tempera paints are specifically formulated to be non-toxic, making them safe for even the littlest hands (and curious mouths, though supervision is always key!).
- Washable Formulas: This is perhaps the biggest selling point for parents! The best tempera paint for kids is almost always washable from skin, clothes, and surfaces with just soap and water. Say goodbye to ruined outfits and stained countertops!
- Vibrant, Opaque Colors: Tempera paints offer bright, bold colors that are wonderfully opaque, meaning they cover well and stand out on various surfaces like paper, cardboard, and even wood.
- Easy to Use: Their creamy texture is perfect for young children learning to control brushes, sponges, or even their fingers. They’re also easy to squeeze from bottles.
- Quick Drying: Tempera paint dries relatively quickly to a matte finish, reducing smudging and allowing kids to display their artwork sooner.
- Versatile: It’s great for a wide range of art projects, from finger painting and stamping to detailed brushwork on various absorbent surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tempera Paint for Kids
Q1: What exactly is tempera paint, and why is it considered ideal for children?
A: Tempera paint is a non-toxic, water-based paint known for its bright, opaque colors. It’s often formulated to be washable, making it incredibly popular for children’s art activities. Its creamy consistency is easy for small hands to manage, and it dries quickly to a matte finish, reducing mess and wait times.
Q2: Is tempera paint safe for toddlers and very young children?
A: Yes, almost all tempera paints designed for kids are labeled as non-toxic and conform to safety standards like ASTM-D4236. Many are also free from common allergens. However, adult supervision is always recommended during art activities, especially with very young children, to ensure paint isn’t ingested in large quantities.
Q3: How do I clean up tempera paint from clothes and surfaces?
A: This is the best part! Most washable tempera paints come off easily with just soap and water. For clothes, rinse the stain with cold water as soon as possible, then wash as usual. For surfaces, a damp cloth with a little soap usually does the trick. Always check the specific product label for the best cleaning instructions.
Q4: What surfaces can kids paint on with tempera paint?
A: Tempera paint is incredibly versatile! It works well on most absorbent, non-greasy surfaces. Common choices include construction paper, drawing paper, cardboard, poster board, plaster, wood, and papier-mâché. It’s also fantastic for window art (if specifically designed for it, or with easy cleanup in mind!) and finger painting on a tray.
Q5: How long does tempera paint typically take to dry?
A: Tempera paint is known for its relatively fast drying time. Depending on the thickness of the application and the humidity, it usually dries to the touch within 15-30 minutes. Thicker layers or highly humid environments might take a bit longer.
Q6: Can tempera paint be mixed to create new colors?
A: Absolutely! Tempera paint mixes beautifully, allowing children to experiment with color theory and create an endless spectrum of new shades. Encourage them to mix primary colors to discover secondary and tertiary colors – it’s a great learning experience!
Q7: What’s the difference between tempera and acrylic paint for kids?
A: The main difference lies in their permanence and base. Tempera paint is water-based, non-toxic, and designed to be easily washable, making it perfect for temporary projects and younger children. Acrylic paint is also water-based but dries to a permanent, waterproof, and often glossy finish. While there are washable acrylics, tempera is generally much easier to clean and ideal for mess-free exploration.
Q8: How should I store tempera paint to keep it fresh?
A: To keep your tempera paint fresh, always ensure the caps or lids are tightly sealed after each use. Store bottles upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Proper storage will prevent the paint from drying out or spoiling, extending its shelf life.
Unleash Their Creativity Today!
Choosing the best tempera paint for kids doesn’t have to be a chore. Whether you prioritize a massive color selection, allergen-free formulas, or incredible bulk value, there’s a perfect set out there for your little one. Each of these options promises vibrant colors, easy cleanup, and hours of creative fun. So go ahead, grab a set, lay down some newspaper, and let your kids discover the joy of painting!