By Spramani Elaun
In this blog I’ll share tips for preschool teachers getting ready to purchase art supplies. I have a lot of knowledge about choosing the best art supplies. And which ones are important to have on hand for art activities. As a homeschool mom and art teacher, I know how important it is to have easy art materials ready to go. I have only two criteria for choosing the best art supplies for toddlers.
- One, they must be safe and non-toxic
- Two, they must be easy to find!
Start Out With Less Supplies
You don’t have to buy many art supplies to get started. Begin with one area of study, such as painting or crafting. It’s always a good idea to start with fewer items and experiment. Additionally, preschool children require ample time to explore and experiment. Take it slow!
If you are not familiar with what art areas you should teach, I recommend reading my Early childhood Art Guide. This book gives you a clear picture of what your students should be learning in visual arts. It includes a common arts supply list as well.
Order Book HERE.
Buy Safe Supplies
OK, lets start with how to choose basic safe art supplies kids can use. Art supplies for preschoolers need to be non- toxic. Don’t choose any adult grade art supplies to teach preschoolers. Be sure all the art supplies you choose have the non toxic seal of approval. The U.S. ASTM D 4236 approved and tested to be safe for children’s use.
The European seal complies with the basic criteria of the European Union. Adult grade art supplies may be toxic and have metals in them. Some have special handling instructions for adults, not preschoolers. Adult supplies might have toxic ingredients, required by the artist. Some artist need colors to blend or archive well. You can find plenty of art supplies for preschool children in most craft stores or online. Order non-toxic art supplies Store.EcoKidsArt.com
Try Fun Art Materials
When I teach preschool art lessons, I break down the visual arts in different art focuses like; painting, drawing, or crafting. Below are just a few art supplies I recommend for teaching these subjects to preschoolers. Gathering the right art supplies ahead of time will help you keep your little artist busy!
- Dry or liquid paints (variety of rainbow colors)
- Tempera paint sticks (dark or bright colors)
- Dot Stampers (easy-to-hold bottles)
- Paint brushes (various sizes)
- Sponges (different sizes, types, and shapes)
- Cups, bowls, or palettes (for paint storage or water play)
- Safety scissors
- Colorful paper
- Yarn (different colors and thicknesses)
- Glue sticks, craft glue
- Wood sticks, natural sticks
Smock, apron, or large t-shirt (to avoid dirtied or stained clothes)
Download Full
Preschool Art Materials List PDF HERE
Preschooler ages need a lot of time to process and play with each different art material. This will give them time to understand how they work and what they can create.
I definitely recommend sticking to one theme each week. This gives preschoolers the time they need to learn an idea. Plus your students will not become overstimulated or overwhelmed.
Teaching preschoolers can be a lot of fun. As a parent, it’s exciting to see them light up as they explore different mediums. They will grow in their confidence and creativity! As a child, it’s a chance to jump into a whole new world of color and experiences. And it all starts with the right preschool art supplies!
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