Image: MomJunction Design Team
Colorful crayons are a wonderful, tried-and-tested way to bring out the tiny artist in your little one. Hence, we bring you a list of the best crayons for toddlers in our post. They may use them regularly and improve their creative side and motor skills. These fun crayons are easily available everywhere and can become your toddler’s best pal in their developing days. So, before you buy one, take a look at our best-selling collection and a buying guide to help you make the right crayon choice.
Top Picks
15 Best Crayons For Toddlers
1. Best For Small Hands: Honeysticks 100% Pure Beeswax Crayons
Image: Honeysticks Made up of 100% pure New Zealand beeswax, Honeysticks offers non-toxic, chubby-shaped crayons suitable for children of all ages. The shape of the beeswax sticks makes it easy to hold for small hands, and the crayons are hard enough to keep the toddlers from breaking them. Colors are food-grade so that there is no risk even if the kid ingests it. Angel from the Natural Lifestyle Show says, “They are durable crayons made with 100% beeswax, and I really like them because they’re non-toxic. They actually have very vivid, nice colors, and they color smoothly.”
Pros
- Made of natural materials like pure beeswax
- Good smell
- Food-grade pigment
- Break-resistant crayons
Cons
- May be a bit soft in texture
- Cardboard box may be a bit flimsy
"These honey-scented crayons have been an excellent find for my little one. They are the perfect size for his little hands, and the toxin-free make offers me a lot of peace of mind. Plus, the included coloring book is a big bonus."
2. Best To Improve Writing: Melissa & Doug Jumbo Triangular Crayons
Image: Melissa & Doug The Jumbo Triangular Crayons from the award-winning brand Melissa & Doug come in ten bright color options in a handy flip-top case. The triangular shape promotes learning and improves writing. These are made up of break-resistant plastic, and not wax. These non-roll crayons are durable and will be a good choice for your toddler for its proper writing grip.
Pros
- Durable around babies
- Triangular shape prevents rolling
- Reusable plastic case helps keep them for long
Cons
- Waxy and slippery
- Faded colors on paper
- Breaks easily
3. Best Twistable: Crayola Twistables Crayons Coloring Set
Image: Crayola An exclusive coloring set with 50 compact twistable crayons by the trusted brand Crayola. These kinds of crayons are long-lasting, do not need peeling, and safe for toddlers. Each color core has a plastic barrel that can be twisted up to color and twisted down to store in the box. According to Daniel from the review channel 9malls, “These are sturdy, not cheaply made at all–they’re not going to break if you drop them. They aren’t getting worn down fast–so these aren’t going to disappear on you immediately. I would definitely choose these over crayons as there is something to hold on these.” It can be used for ages three and up.
Pros
- Non-toxic ingredients
- Plastic barrels allow color to be seen and prevent breakage.
- Do not melt in the heat
- Do not break at all
Cons
- Scent does not match with color code listed
- Not much coloring product in each pen
- Tip too thick to color within lines
"My child finds it very easy to grip and manuver these twist-up crayons. They have held up well to his daily coloring sessions, and although some colors are translucent, they show up well on the paper. Plus, I appreciate that they come in a clear case."
4. Best Wipeable: Crayola Washable Crayons
Image: Crayola 
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 10,794 reviews on Amazon indicate that this product has a loyal following.
Crayola offers eight large washable crayons for toddlers that are non-toxic. Unlike traditional crayons, they are distinct as they can be wiped off almost everything; sofas, chairs, tables, etc. they are smooth and easy to color. These tried-and-tested crayon sticks are easy to wipe off with warm water and a sponge, and hence, you can be tension-free when your toddlers are coloring around. Art YouTuber Teoh Yi Chie says, “They have colors listed on the label for all the crayons. They are a bit more waxy than usual and are rather transparent. Also,they are washable.”
Pros
- Wipeable; no worry about scribbling walls and floors
- Non-toxic pigment
- Vivid, bright color options
Cons
- Easily breakable
- Dissolve when in contact with water
- Melt in heat
"My little ones find it fun and easy to color their projects with these vibrant and smooth crayons. They are also easily washable, a big boon as my little ones like to draw on the walls. While some may find the wrapping paper frustrating, the overall experience has been positive."
Quick fact5. Best For Fun Baths: Crayola Bathtub Crayons with Crayola Color Bath Drops
Image: Crayola Let your little one color when they bath, let them be the true artist with Crayola Bathtub Crayons With Crayola Color Bath Drops. Katie Bell from Skinny Jeans and Stretch Marks says, “These are my number-one favorite bath toy for my daughter. I like to see her artwork at the end. Sometimes I leave them on for two or three baths and then the whole bath is covered.” The bath drops are fizzing tablets that turn the water into a rainbow each time your baby is bathing. About the bath drops, Katie says, “One bath tab will do the whole bath, but I do add another color. I love these–I think these are so fun, I often use them whenever she’s already in the bath.”
Pros
- Both crayons and tablets are entirely washable
- Non-toxic
- Baby takes a bath easily with colored water
Cons
- Fragile
- Have to clean immediately to remove color stains
"The crayons' retractable design has kept them from breaking even when my toddler uses too much force while coloring. While the inclusion of more colors would be nice, the crayons have offered a lot of educational fun. Plus, the tub tablets are a nice touch."
6. Best Break-Resistant: Crayola Fun Effects Mini Twistables Crayons
Image: Crayola A fun product by Crayola; the Fun Effects Twistable Crayons make everyday learning interesting. There is a bright burst of color or mixture of colors in each crayon stick. There are shimmering metallic glitter crayons, brilliant neon crayons, and beautiful rainbow colors in the pack.
Pros
- They don’t leave the leftover wax on drawings
- Do not break in the bag while traveling
- Plastic covering for protection
- No sharpening required
Cons
- Neon and metallic colors are not bright on paper
- Broad tip, not easy to stay within lines
- Have to press hard for any color to show up
"My little one was captivated by the twistable design of these crayons. It has helped her grip the crayons easily and kept them from breaking. Although some crayons tend to detach from the casing, they are easy to put back. Overall, it's been a good find for encouraging creative time."
7. Best Non-Toxic: Crayola My First Palm Grip Crayons
Image: Crayola Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 5,035 reviews on Amazon, this product is a winner.
For the natural grasp of a toddler, Crayola My First offers egg-shaped crayons to fit the tiny hands. These crayons are not thin like regular crayons and give comfort to a toddler when using. The pack has six washable crayons; viz red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. One Palm grip crayon is equivalent to 14 regular crayons. The fact that they are washable makes them even more popular amongst parents as they can let their toddlers play without worrying about scribbles all over the walls and furniture.
Pros
- Egg shape is easy to hold and scribble
- Provides proper writing grip
- AP certified and non-toxic
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Leave faint marks even after rubbing on paper
- Hollow and break easily
- Roll away the moment you put them down
"The crayons’ graspable design and vibrant colors have made coloring time a sought-after activity in my household. While coloring fine detailing has a learning curve, the crayons have worked well for my children's art projects. Hence, I would recommend them."
Quick tip8. Best Long-Lasting: Crayola Jumbo Crayons
Image: Crayola Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 4,825 customers on Amazon have opined that this is one of the best products in its category.
Crayola keeps innovating for children of all ages. Crayola Jumbo crayons have long-lasting colors, are large enough for toddlers to hold and are hard to break. One of the best-selling options, this pack with primary and secondary colors is the perfect coloring tool for the young artist. The reusable crayon storage box helps keep the mess away.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Big and comfortable to hold
- Scrub off the wall easily
Cons
- Sloppy packaging
- Break easily
9. Best For Skill Development: GiBot Toddlers Crayons
GiBot Toddler Crayons offer crayons that have the perfect size for little hands to grip. These painting crayons for color exploration come in 12 primary colors. They can also be used as building blocks to help kids learn and develop physical skills and thinking skills in early color recognition.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Washable with hand soap
- Smooth in writing
- Building blocks are an attraction
Cons
- Hollow, break easily
- Brittle, not durable
- Can be a choking hazard for kids if pieces break.
"These crayons have been a hit with the little ones at home, functioning well for stacking activities and their intended coloring use. Their vibrant colors have helped enhance my kid's creativity and motor skills. Overall, they have been a decent find."
10. Best Anti-Roll: Crayola Triangular Crayons
Image: Crayola Crayola triangular crayons are the perfect tool to initiate your toddler into the world of artistic expression. These crayons are easy to grip for small hands, and their triangular shape prevents them from rolling off the table, minimizing the risk of breakage and making them more practical. The crayons come in vibrant and accurate colors.
Pros
- Improves grip for writing
- Washable
- Meets ASTM standards
- Non-toxic crayons
Cons
- May not be easy to sharpen
- Storage box may be flimsy
"Thanks to the triangle design, my child no longer complains about his crayons rolling away. Besides, that has also made it easy for him to grip the crayons. Hence, despite being thinner than expected, the crayons got my approval."
11. Best Easy-To-Hold: Lebze Jumbo Crayons For Toddlers
Made of non-toxic materials, the natural wax crayons by Lebze’s are gentle on the little one’s skin. They are also free of soluble elements like asbestos or lead. These natural crayons are big and easy to hold. Each round crayon measures approximately 10.8cm long and 1.4cm diameter. The unique shape makes them easy to hold and is a popular crayon choice among many parents.
Pros
- Vibrant colors
- Rich pigment
- Natural ingredients
- Certified non toxic
- Uniquely shaped easy-grip crayons
Cons
- Breaks easily and can be a toxic hazard
- Non-durable
"I've found these vibrant crayons to be well-pigmented and versatile enough for different crafting needs. Though some pieces might chip if you have spirited toddlers like me, they serve the purpose well. Plus, the storage box is a nice touch."
12. Best Portable Set: Melissa & Doug Truck Crayon Set
Image: Melissaanddoug These Durable crayons by Melissa and Doug are non-roll, triangular in shape, and promote writing skills in toddlers. The truck
shape is attractive for kids and has a handy flip-top case with a handle for easy portability while traveling with toddlers.
Pros
- Durable, easy to organize
- Convenient during travel
- Triangle shape prevents rolling
Cons
- Colors are waxy and extremely muted
- Have to press hard to color
- Range of colors not enough
"These triangular crayons don't put pressure on my little one's fingers, even when he is coloring for long hours. The clear container and lack of wrappers make it easy for him to pick the right colors. Overall, they have been a reliable choice for my toddler's coloring needs."
13. Best Durable: Melissa & Doug Princess Crayon Set
Image: Melissa & Doug A product for your little princess; Melissa and Doug Princess Crayon set comes in a cute box with a tiara shaped handle. It includes 12 non-roll crayons. The shape promotes comfort and gives a perfect grip for writing. These tried-and-tested crayons are easy to store neatly in top flip case.
Pros
- Do not roll off the table
- Durable
- Case easy to carry in a bag
Cons
- Case hard to open
- Very light colors
- Not smooth
"Besides offering a good grip, the triangular shape of these crayons also keeps them from rolling away from my kid. My daughter loves the range of colors and the durable case shaped like a princess's crown. Overall, they have proven to be a reliable buy."
14. Best Smooth: Crayola 52-0389 Crayons
Image: Crayola Crayola’s non-toxic Jumbo crayons are apt for kids. Basic colors red, yellow, green, blue, brown, black, orange, and purple in the pack are vibrant and show up well on paper. These vibrant jumbo-size crayons for toddlers are designed with a focus on true color, smoothness, and durability.
Pros
- Rich pigment
- Non-toxic ingredients
- Do not break easily
- Are big enough for little hands to hold
- Perfect shade of colors
Cons
- Boxes might have broken crayons
- Crayons may leave marks wherever they are kept
15. Best Washable: Y-Plus Peanut Crayons
Image: Tecnoz The Y-Plus crayons are an ideal gift for art-loving toddlers. This pack has 12 washable peanut-shaped crayons that are easy to hold and use. The vibrant and pigmented colors of the crayons can help the child create a masterpiece or draw anything that comes to their mind. They can also promote motor skill development.
Pros
- Made using non-toxic natural, synthetic wax
- Have a rich pigment
- Crayons have a residue-free formulation
- Pack includes a coloring roll
- Helps improve fine hand-eye coordination
Cons
- Some might find the crayons small
- May not withstand rough usage
"These peanut-shaped crayons were surprisingly easy for my toddler to hold and move. They feel sturdy, and their shape naturally guides my little one into a proper writing hold. Hence, despite being smaller than expected, I would still recommend them."
Why Choose Crayons For Toddlers?
Crayons give wings to the artistic minds of your kids. Crayons are safe to use as compared to watercolors, oil pastels, or other fancy colors available in the market. These art materials are the best choice for toddlers for a few major reasons, like the following.
- Most crayons don’t leave a mess. You don’t have to worry about spilled paint or child scribbling on their skin like they would do with pens or markers.
- The small size of the crayons makes it easy for small hands to hold and control. It can help improve muscle control, which is helpful when the child begins to write.
- Crayons encourage kids to mix colors and experiment with color. It helps your kid to learn art at an early age.
How To Choose The Right Crayons For Toddlers?
Choose sturdy crayons that are durable, comfortable to hold for your toddler, and that leave color on the paper without requiring much pressure. You can also keep the following points in mind while shopping for crayons to add to your toddler’s art supply.
- Variety of colors: Pick a standard crayon pack with several colors. A large range of colors can make for an exciting coloring time for the little one.
- Box type: Crayons that come in a plastic crayon box are easy to organize and store for later use.
- Size of the crayon: There are a variety of crayon sizes available. For instance, jumbo-size crayons can be helpful for small hands. Smaller ones help the toddler master the pencil-holding technique.
Tips For Safe Use Of Crayons
Check the size of the crayons while shopping. Small crayons, be it any shape, can be ingested by children if you do not monitor them and thus be a choking hazard. You must also take care that the child washes hands after using crayons to prevent any color or chemicals from entering their mouth and eyes. Therefore, opt for safety-tested crayons for toddlers made from natural ingredients to prevent choking hazards and chemical contamination.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. At what age can toddlers use crayons?
A toddler can use crayons after the age of 18 months since they are likely to be more adept at gripping and holding objects.
2. Are crayons safe for toddlers?
For crayons to be safe, they should be certified non-toxic. Check for the packaging of the crayon for mention of words like “non-toxic” or “chemical-free.”
3. What is the shelf life of crayons?
Standard crayons can last for a long time when stored in a cool and dry place. Heat and excess moisture might cause them to become brittle or smudgy.
4. Are bigger crayons better for toddlers?
It depends on your toddler’s comfort level. Big or chunky crayons are designed keeping in mind that regular crayons may either be too thin for the child to hold properly or too fragile to be able to withstand a toddler’s rough handling. But sometimes, few toddlers have too tiny hands, in which case bigger crayons may seem heavy or bulky to them.
5. Which are better: crayons or colored pencils?
Crayons are softer than colored pencils, which makes them more toddler-friendly as they don’t need much pressure. In terms of vibrancy, crayons with rich pigments produce brighter hues that attract little ones more.
6. Are washable crayons worth it?
If your toddler loves to color whatever they think needs a bit of touch-up, washable or wipeable mess-free crayons can save your walls and furniture, provided they have a non-porous surface or coating.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Priti Bose is a children’s toy and gift specialist who has got your back. Here, she brings you a curated list of the best crayons for toddlers to help them get creative and unleash their artsy side. Thanks to her in-depth research, these high-quality crayons for early creativity are available in all shapes, sizes, and colors and made with safe ingredients to ensure your child’s safety.
The Bottom Line
The best crayons for toddlers can help them learn and improve their drawing skills. They help children express their creativity and imagination on a colorless sheet. So, choose a crayon set appropriate for the toddler’s age and let them draw to their hearts’ content. Our best picks include the Crayola Washable Crayons for a mess-free experience, the Crayola Twistables Crayons Coloring Set for minimal breakage, and the Honeysticks 100% Pure Beeswax Crayons for a non-toxic and eco-friendly option. Also, to help your child have a smooth drawing experience, make sure you refrain from choosing crayons that are small and too waxy. Consider the provided buying tips and factors before buying crayons for your child.
Infographic: Easy Crayon-Based Activities For Your Child’s Development
Besides being a part of creative activities, crayons can also improve children’s fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Maneuvering a crayon can also make a child more focused. Here’s an infographic that highlights some fun activities involving crayons for your little one. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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