Best Kids' Colored Pencils of 2026

Jimmy Roof Avatar
Jimmy Roof
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2026

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Kids' colored pencils are a great way to encourage creativity and imagination in children. With a wide range of colors to choose from, kids can express themselves and create beautiful works of art. These pencils are specially designed for little hands, with a comfortable grip and durable construction. They are also non-toxic and safe for children to use. Whether your child enjoys drawing, coloring, or sketching, kids' colored pencils are a must-have for any young artist.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Crayola Colored Pencil Set, 36 Count Cover #TOP 1
Crayola Colored Pencil Set, 36 Count
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set (50ct) Cover #TOP 2
Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set (50ct)
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Crayola Pip Squeaks Marker Set (65ct) Cover #TOP 3
Crayola Pip Squeaks Marker Set (65ct)
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Kids' Colored Pencils

#TOP 1

Crayola Colored Pencil Set, 36 Count

68-4036
Multicolor
Crayola Colored Pencil Set, 36 Count Cover
Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils for Kids & Adults, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Ages 3+

The Crayola Colored Pencil Set includes 36 vibrant and creamy pencil colors that are perfect for creative art projects and homework assignments. The soft cores are durable and won't break easily, and the presharpened tips are ready for use right out of the box. This set is safe and non-toxic, making it ideal for kids ages 5 and up.

What We Like
Vibrant color payoff
Wide variety of colors
Durable and long-lasting
Comfortable grip
What We Don't Like
Needs occasional sharpening
Points may break if sharpened aggressively
#TOP 2

Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set (50ct)

687406
Multicolored
Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set (50ct) Cover
Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set (50ct), Stocking Stuffer for Kids & Teens, No Sharpen Colored Pencils For Kids Coloring Books, Drawing & Sketching, 4+

The Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set includes 50 colored pencils that don't require sharpening or peeling. The plastic barrel protects the color core while the twistable design allows for use on the go. These pencils are perfect for coloring books, art projects, and make a great gift for kids age 4+. Additionally, the pencils are safe and non-toxic.

What We Like
Wide color variety
No sharpening required
Strong pigment quality
Easy for kids and adults
Convenient for travel
What We Don't Like
Flimsy packaging
Color labels not visible
#TOP 3

Crayola Pip Squeaks Marker Set (65ct)

42852
Marker/Paper Set
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Crayola Pip Squeaks Marker Set (65ct) Cover
Crayola Pip-Squeaks Washable Marker Set (65ct), Holiday & Christmas Gifts for Kids, Coloring Set, Art Supplies for Kids, Drawing & Craft Kit, Travel Activity, 4+

The Crayola Pip Squeaks Marker Set (65ct) is a washable marker set designed for kids. The all-inclusive durable case can hold over 150 crayons and paper, making it perfect for coloring on-the-go. The inspiration art case handle makes it easy to carry around. Everything is included for fun right out of the convenient storage package. Estimated delivery time is 5-8 days, and it ships from the United States.

What We Like
Handy carrying case
Washable markers
Wide variety of colors
Perfect size for kids
Travel friendly
What We Don't Like
Caps and case slots a bit tight
Paper size slightly unusual

Shuttle Art 80 Colored Pencils

SA CP-RG80
80 Colors
Shuttle Art 80 Colored Pencils Cover
Shuttle Art 80 Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Color Pencil, Drawing Supplies for Adults Kids Artists Beginners Drawing Coloring Sketching

The Shuttle Art Colored Pencils set features 80 distinct colors, ensuring you have a wide range to choose from for your coloring projects. Each pencil is labeled with its unique color name and number, making it easy for you to find the perfect shade quickly. With their soft cores, these pencils glide effortlessly on paper, allowing for smooth application and vibrant results. Plus, their break-resistant design means you can enjoy using them without worrying about frequent breakage, making them ideal for artists and coloring enthusiasts of all ages.

What We Like
Vibrant color selection
Durable and sturdy pencils
Good blending capability
Reasonable price
Useful accessories included
What We Don't Like
Flimsy plastic trays
Color names inconsistent
#TOP 5

Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils, 24 Count

68-2424
Assorted
Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils, 24 Count Cover
Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils (24ct), Kids Coloring Pencils for Coloring Books, Assorted Colors, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Gifts, Ages 6, 7, 8

Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils are made from reforested wood, and are perfect for kids to redo drawings or correct mistakes. These pre-sharpened pencils are strong, durable and come in 24 bright, bold colors with smooth lay down. They are great for school projects, creating detailed artwork and indoor activities. Crayola offers a diverse range of colored pencils for all ages, from washable formulas for the youngest students to premium colored pencils for adults.

What We Like
Vibrant color variety
Effective erasability
Easy to sharpen
Comfortable grip for kids
Affordable alternative
What We Don't Like
Occasional missing erasers
Less intense pigmentation
#TOP 6

Crayola Colored Pencils Classpack 240ct

687506
Assorted
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Crayola Colored Pencils Classpack 240ct Cover
Crayola Colored Pencils Classpack (240ct), Bulk Colored Pencils for Kids, 12 Colors, Coloring Supplies, Must Have Teacher Classroom Essentials for School

The Crayola Colored Pencils Set offers a bulk pack of 240 pre-sharpened pencils in 12 vibrant colors, perfect for group activities or classrooms. You’ll appreciate the organized storage box that keeps each color neatly separated, making it easy to find the shade you need quickly. With 20 pencils per color and 12 included sharpeners in different colors, you’re well-equipped for large groups or busy art sessions. This set is designed especially for schools and teachers, ensuring every student can have their own pencil during projects, which helps reduce sharing and keeps things running smoothly.

What We Like
Large quantity
Great value
Wide variety of colors
Pre-sharpened pencils
Sturdy storage box
What We Don't Like
Missing pink color
#TOP 7

V-Opitos 48 Pack Pre-sharpened Colored Pencils

Color Pencils - 48c
Multicolor
V-Opitos 48 Pack Pre-sharpened Colored Pencils Cover
V-Opitos 48 Pack Colored Pencils Set, Pre-sharpened Coloring Pencils for Kids Beginners, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Ideal Art Supplies for Sketching, Coloring & Painting

The V-Opitos 48 Colored Pencils offer a wide range of vibrant colors, giving you plenty of options to bring your artwork to life. Since all pencils come pre-sharpened, you can start coloring right away without needing a sharpener, saving you time and hassle. The hexagonal shape is designed for a comfortable grip, helping you hold the pencils steadily and draw with precision. Made from high-quality, non-toxic materials, these pencils deliver rich, long-lasting color that won’t fade, making your drawings look bright and smooth. Whether you’re a beginner or an adult coloring enthusiast, these pencils provide a reliable and enjoyable coloring experience.

What We Like
Vibrant color variety
Smooth blending performance
Comfortable to hold
Easy to sharpen
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Minor tip wear during shipping
Could find alternatives by shopping around
#TOP 8

Crayola Bulk Colored Pencils

68-0004
Assorted Colors
Crayola Bulk Colored Pencils Cover
Crayola Bulk Colored Pencils for Kids (24pk) - 12 Assorted Colors, Art Supplies For Crafts & Coloring Books, Bulk Preschool & Kindergarten Classroom Supplies (Packaging May Vary)

Crayola Colored Pencils are a must-have for any classroom or art project. This pack includes 24 packs of 12 count colored pencils, giving you a total of 288 pencils. The soft cores of these pencils won't break easily, ensuring that they will last for a long time. Plus, the pencils come pre-sharpened, so they are ready for use right out of the box. With a wide range of colors including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, black, brown, and white, these pencils are perfect for creating vibrant and colorful artwork. Suitable for kids aged 5 and up, these pencils are safe and non-toxic. Get your classroom ready for creative projects and homework assignments with Crayola Colored Pencils.

What We Like
Great bulk price
Trusted name brand
Bright, true colors
Easy to sharpen
Perfect for classrooms
What We Don't Like
Occasional quantity mix-up
Missing pink pencil
#TOP 9

Crayola 24 Twistables Pencils

68-7524
Multicolor
Crayola 24 Twistables Pencils Cover
Crayola 24 Twistables Colored Pencils

The Crayola Twistables Pencils offer a fun and convenient coloring experience for kids aged five and up. With 24 vibrant colors, you can easily twist the pencils to reveal more color without the hassle of sharpening. This means you can keep your creativity flowing without interruptions. The clear plastic case is another great feature; it not only shows you how much color is left but also protects the pencils from breaking. This added durability ensures that your art supplies last longer, making them perfect for little hands eager to explore their artistic talents.

What We Like
Good color variety
Durable and long-lasting
No sharpening required
Easy for kids to use
Bright and vibrant colors
What We Don't Like
White pencil less visible
Thin leads break occasionally
#TOP 10

Crayola Watercolor Colored Pencils

68 4304
Assorted
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Crayola Watercolor Colored Pencils Cover
Crayola Watercolor Colored Pencils (24ct), Watercolor Paint Alternative, Watercolor Pencil Set for Kids, Art Supplies, Gift for Kids, 3+

Introducing Crayola Watercolor Pencils, a cool way for kids to unleash their creativity! These pre-sharpened colored pencils can be used dry for coloring and drawing, or with a few drops of water to create stunning watercolor effects. With these pencils, kids can experiment with shading, texture, and color mixing to produce a wide range of interesting color results. Made from reforested wood, these eco-friendly pencils are perfect for today's eco-conscious families. The 24-count set ensures endless artistic possibilities for young artists. Start drawing right out of the box with Crayola Watercolor Pencils!

What We Like
Vivid, rich color payoff
Smooth application
Blends easily with water
Durable and sturdy for kids
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Occasional pencil breakage
Limited color selection
Buying Guide Image

Guidelines for Choosing the Right Kids' Colored Pencils for Kids

Choosing the right colored pencils for your child can be a daunting task. With so many options on the market, it's important to consider a few key factors before making a purchase. In this article, we will explore some of the most important factors to consider when choosing kids' colored pencils, and offer some tips and suggestions to help you make the best decision for your child.

Quality and Durability

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing colored pencils for your child is the quality and durability of the pencils. Kids can be hard on their art supplies, and it's important to choose pencils that will withstand the rigors of regular use. Look for pencils that are made from high-quality materials and that have a solid construction. Avoid cheap, flimsy pencils that are likely to break or wear out quickly.

Age-Appropriateness

Another important factor to consider when choosing kids' colored pencils is the age-appropriateness of the pencils. Younger children may have difficulty using pencils with thin, delicate leads, while older children may find chunky pencils too cumbersome to use. Consider your child's age and skill level when choosing colored pencils, and opt for pencils that are appropriate for their age and abilities.

Color Selection

The color selection of the pencils is another important factor to consider. Most colored pencil sets come with a wide range of colors, but some sets may have more limited color options. Consider the type of art your child enjoys creating, and choose a set of pencils that has a good selection of colors that will allow them to create the art they love.

Ease of Sharpening

Kids can be hard on their pencils, and it's important to choose pencils that are easy to sharpen. Look for pencils that sharpen easily and that don't break or crumble when sharpened. Avoid pencils that are difficult to sharpen, as these can be frustrating for your child to use.

Non-Toxic

It's important to choose colored pencils that are non-toxic, as your child is likely to put the pencils in their mouth at some point. Look for pencils that are labeled as non-toxic and that are safe for use by children. Avoid pencils that are not labeled as non-toxic, as these may contain harmful chemicals that can be dangerous for your child.

In conclusion, choosing the right colored pencils for your child can be a daunting task. Consider the quality and durability of the pencils, the age-appropriateness of the pencils, the color selection of the pencils, the ease of sharpening of the pencils, and the non-toxic nature of the pencils. With these factors in mind, you can choose the best colored pencils for your child and help them create beautiful art.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can 5 year olds use colored pencils?

Yes, colored pencils are suitable for 5-year-olds. Children as young as 1 to 3 years old can start using half-length and full-length colored pencils, and as they grow older, they can transition to regular-sized colored pencils.

2. Why are Prismacolor pencils so expensive?

Prismacolor colored pencils are considered professional-grade and are priced higher than cheaper brands like Crayola. The reason for their higher cost is their superior pigmentation and smoothness. Prismacolors offer vibrant colors without leaving white spaces on the paper, enhancing the quality of drawings compared to other brands.

3. Should you start with dark or light colored pencils first?

When using colored pencils, it is recommended to start with lighter colors and gradually build up to darker shades. This approach allows for better control and the ability to correct mistakes. If a drawing becomes darker than desired or a wrong color is used, gentle erasing with an electric eraser can remove a layer or two.

4. Should a 5 year old be able to color in the lines?

While coloring within the lines is a developmental milestone typically reached between the ages of 3 to 5, it is not necessary to explicitly ask children to do so. Encouraging creativity and enjoyment in coloring is more important than strict adherence to boundaries. If a 5-year-old is still scribbling, there is no cause for concern.

5. What should a 5 year old be able to draw?

By the age of 5, children can draw various objects such as animals, houses, vehicles, trees, plants, flowers, and rainbows. They can include details like doors, windows, roofs, and chimneys in their drawings. At this age, children should have developed good control when holding a pencil, crayon, or paintbrush.

Editor's Notes

During our kids' colored pencil research, we found 24 kids' colored pencil products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 568,112 customer reviews through our big data system to write the kids' colored pencils list. We found that most customers choose kids' colored pencils with an average price of $10.54.

The kids' colored pencils are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of kids' colored pencils, including Crayola, Shuttle Art, V-Opitos. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jimmy Roof Avatar

Jimmy Roof is a toy designer who lives in Chicago with his family. He works in a big toy firm, so he is surrounded by toys every day. Throughout his career, he has developed expertise in children's toys, baby products and preschool education. Jimmy Roof often publishes articles related to toys on key websites.

Kids' Colored Pencils Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Crayola Crayola Crayola Shuttle Art Crayola Crayola V-Opitos Crayola Crayola Crayola
Writing Instrument Form Colored Pencil Colored Pencil Marker Pen Colored Pencil Colored Pencil Colored Pencil Colored Pencil Colored Pencil Colored Pencil Colored Pencil
Color Multicolor Multicolored Marker/Paper Set 80 Colors Assorted Assorted Multicolor Assorted Colors Multicolor Assorted
Ink Color Multicolor Multicolor Multicolor Multicolor Multicolored Multicolor Multicolor Multicolored Multicolor Multicolor
Age Range (Description) Kid Kid Kid All Ages Kid Kid Kid Kid Kid Kid
Item Weight - 13.4 ounces - - 6.5 ounces 3.58 pounds 12 ounces 4.28 pounds - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
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