How to Choose the Right Kids' Easel for Your Child?

When it comes to helping kids grow creatively, sometimes the simplest tools make the biggest impact. One of those tools is a kids’ easel, a dedicated space where children can paint, draw, and explore their imagination freely. Whether it’s coloring with crayons, writing with chalk, or painting with a brush, an easel gives them a place to express themselves while learning and having fun.

In this guide, we’ll explore what makes kids’ easels so valuable, how to choose the right one, and some of the best options available today.

Why Kids’ Easels Are a Great Choice for Creative Play?

A kids’ easel is more than just an art station. It’s a place where young minds can explore ideas, solve problems visually, and build confidence in their creativity. These easels are designed with children in mind, using safe, sturdy materials and fun features to keep kids engaged.

How Kids Benefit from Easels

• Encourages creativity: Kids can try new techniques, mix colors, and draw whatever comes to mind, all in one spot.
• Develops motor skills: Holding a brush or marker and working on a vertical surface strengthens fine motor development.
• Supports better posture: The upright position encourages kids to stand or sit properly as they work.
• Creates learning moments: Easels double as educational tools. Kids can practice letters, numbers, and shapes on a whiteboard or chalkboard.
• Fun and focused time: Painting or drawing at an easel helps kids focus on a task while enjoying the process.

Some kids’ art easels are designed for solo use, while others offer multi-sided panels so more than one child can play and create together.

What to Look For in a Kids’ Easel

Choosing the best easel for kids depends on a few key things: age, space, and how the child likes to create. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Age & Development

• Toddlers might need something lower and more basic.
• Older children may enjoy easels with adjustable heights or multiple surfaces.

Features That Matter

Look for:

• Chalkboard and whiteboard combo
• Paper roll holders
• Storage bins or trays for markers, paint, and brushes
• Height adjustability for growing kids

Safety First

• Stick with easels made from non-toxic, child-safe materials.
• Make sure the frame is stable and won’t tip over during use.

Space Consideration

• For smaller rooms, a tabletop easel for kids works well.
• Full-sized easels are best for larger play areas or classrooms.

Top Brands You Can Choose From

Blick

Blick offers several thoughtful kids’ easel designs that balance function and affordability. Their easels come with features like dry-erase boards and easy-access trays.

Top Picks:

• Blick Kids' Easel
• Blick Folding Dry-Erase Easel

Highlights:

• Dual-sided surfaces
• Folds flat for storage
• Simple and durable designs

Melissa & Doug

A household name for educational toys, Melissa & Doug makes easels that combine fun and functionality.

• Best for: Ages 3+, early learners
• Features: Paper roll holder, dry-erase + chalkboard surfaces, easy-access trays

Jonti-Craft

Perfect for schools and structured play environments, Jonti-Craft easels are built with strength and durability in mind.

• Best for: Classrooms, early learning centers
• Features: Baltic birch wood construction, art panels, and multiple child use

Copernicus

Copernicus focuses on interactive learning tools. Their easels are packed with teacher-friendly features.

• Best for: Teachers, group projects, active classrooms
• Features: Mobile frames, clip-on storage, magnetic surfaces

Whitney Brothers

These kids’ easels bring both form and function, and are often used in preschools and educational programs.

• Best for: Early childhood education
• Features: Hardwood construction, versatile drawing panels

artPOP!

This brand offers colorful, fun options geared towards younger kids. Lightweight and easy to move.

• Best for: Home use, preschool play
• Features: Simple design, vibrant frames, foldable models

Meeden

Known for traditional artist tools, Meeden also makes well-crafted easels for kids exploring art seriously.

• Best for: Budding young artists
• Features: Adjustable wood easels, stable base, natural finish

Where to Buy Kids’ Easels

When it’s time to buy, stick with trusted retailers that offer real reviews, quality products, and fair return policies.

• Blick Art Materials – A top pick for parents, teachers, and schools. Blick has a strong variety of painting easels for kids, with reliable shipping and clear product details.
• Amazon – A convenient option with lots of variety. Just be sure to check ratings and reviews and buy from well-rated sellers to avoid lower-quality items.

Both platforms let you shop with confidence and get the easel that fits your needs.

Final Thoughts

Giving a child a space of their own to create is one of the best gifts you can offer. A kids’ easel provides not just a surface to draw or paint, but a space to explore, imagine, and grow. Whether it’s for a rainy afternoon at home, regular classroom use, or a creative corner in a playroom, an easel adds real value to a child’s daily experience.

Think about the features your child will use the most, how much space you have, and how long you'd like the easel to last. With so many options out there, you’re sure to find one that makes art time more fun and a little more organized.

FAQs About Kids’ Easels

What’s the best age to start using a kids’ easel?

Many easels are made for ages 3 and up, but some toddler models are safe for younger kids under supervision.

Can multiple kids use one easel?

Yes, many easels are double-sided or multi-panel so two or more kids can create at the same time.

Are easels easy to clean?

Most whiteboard and plastic surfaces wipe clean easily. Look for washable materials for easier upkeep.

Do kids’ easels come assembled?

Some do, but others require a light setup. Assembly is usually simple and doesn’t take long.

Can I use a kids’ easel outdoors?

You can, especially with plastic models. Just bring them back inside to avoid damage from sun or rain.