Kids Paint Buying Guide

Painting is a fun and creative activity that stimulates a child's imagination, helps develop cognitive skills and improves hand-eye coordination. But not all paints are created equal, and choosing the right one for your child can be a daunting task. This buying guide will provide you with important factors to consider when selecting the best paint for your little artist.

1. Safety

The safety of the paint should be your top priority when selecting a brand for your child. Choose paint that is labeled “non-toxic” or “safe for children.” Look for ASTM D-4236 certification, which means the product has been evaluated by the American Society for Testing and Materials and deemed safe for use in art materials.

Avoid paints that contain harmful chemicals such as lead, cadmium, and phthalates. Even if they are not labeled as toxic, they can cause health problems if ingested or absorbed through the skin. Water-based paints are generally considered safer than oil-based paints, which can release harmful fumes.

2. Age Appropriateness

Choose paint that is appropriate for your child's age and skill level. For toddlers and preschoolers, choose washable finger paints or tempera paints that are easy to clean up and won't stain clothes or furniture. These paints are usually non-toxic and can be used safely by children with minimal adult supervision.

For older children who have more advanced motor skills, acrylic paints may be a better option. They are more vibrant and durable than tempera paints, but they may require more cleanup and adult supervision.

3. Quality/Brand

The quality of the paint can influence the quality of your child's artwork. Low-quality paints may not mix well, fade quickly, or peel off the canvas. Look for well-known brands that have a reputation for providing high-quality paints.

While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest paints available, investing in higher-quality paints can save you money in the long run. Better quality paints are more pigmented, require fewer coats, and last longer than cheaper alternatives.

4. Color Selection

Kids love color, and having a variety of color options can encourage creativity and experimentation. Choose a set of paints that includes the primary colors (red, yellow, and blue) and a range of secondary colors (purple, green, and orange).

Some paint sets come with metallic or glittery colors to add some pizzazz to the artwork. Consider purchasing a color wheel or mixing guide to help your child learn about color theory and how to create new colors by mixing paint.

5. Packaging and Storage

The packaging and storage of the paint can impact how long it lasts and how easy it is to use. Choose paint sets that come in sturdy containers with secure lids to prevent spills and drying out. Squeeze bottles or tubes are easier for kids to use and can reduce waste by allowing them to dispense only the amount of paint they need.

Consider purchasing a storage container or tray for the paint sets to keep the colors organized and prevent them from getting mixed up. Make sure to store the paint in a cool, dry place to prevent mold growth or drying out.

6. Price

The price of the paint is an important factor to consider when purchasing art supplies for kids. While quality and safety should be a top priority, it's also important to choose paints that fit within your budget. Paint sets can range from a few dollars to over a hundred dollars, depending on the quality and quantity of the paint.

Consider how often your child will use the paint and how much you are willing to spend on art supplies. Look for deals or discounts when purchasing multiple paint sets or buying in bulk.

Conclusion

Choosing the best paint for your child can be a challenging task. Safety, age appropriateness, quality, color selection, packaging and storage, and price are all important factors to consider when selecting art supplies for your little artist.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a paint set that will inspire creativity, encourage learning, and provide hours of fun for your child.

7. Paint Types

There are different types of paints available for kids, each with its own unique qualities and benefits. Knowing the different types of paints can help you choose the best paint for your child's project.

Tempera Paint

Tempera paint is a water-based paint that is safe for kids to use. It's easy to clean up, dries quickly, and can be used on a variety of surfaces such as paper, cardboard, and wood. Tempera paint can come in a variety of finishes, such as matte or glossy, and can be mixed to create different colors.

Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paint is a water-based paint that dries quickly and is permanent once it has dried. It's a good option for older children who have more advanced painting skills. Acrylic paints can be used on a variety of surfaces such as canvas, wood, and paper, and come in a variety of colors and finishes. Acrylics are usually more pigmented, durable than tempera paints, but can be harder to clean up.

Watercolor Paint

Watercolor paint is a water-based paint that is easily diluted with water to create various hues. It's best used on watercolor paper and is a good option for children who are interested in creating landscapes or other nature scenes. Watercolor paints can create beautiful, translucent washes and are easy to clean up with water.

Finger Paint

Finger paints are usually non-toxic and washable and are a fun way for younger children to explore painting. They can come in various consistencies, such as gel or liquid, and may have different textures, such as glitter or puffy. Finger painting allows children to use their hands to create shapes and designs, promoting sensory exploration and fine motor skills.

8. Painting Accessories

Depending on your child's painting project, there may be some painting accessories that can help enhance the experience and results.

Paint Brushes

Paint brushes come in different sizes and shapes and can be used with different types of paints. Choose paint brushes that are easy to grip for children and come in a variety of sizes for different types of details.

Palettes

Palettes are used to mix colors and can come in various materials such as plastic or ceramic. They are beneficial for acrylic and watercolor paints, as they keep the colors separate and prevent them from drying out too quickly.

Easels

Easels can help support the canvas or paper that your child is painting on, making it easier for them to paint without having to hold the canvas themselves. Easels come in various styles and materials, such as tabletop or adjustable-height.

Smocks and Aprons

Painting can be a messy activity, and smocks and aprons can protect your child's clothing from paint stains. Look for smocks or aprons that are made from washable materials to make cleanup easy.

Conclusion

Painting is a fun and rewarding activity for children of all ages. By considering safety, age appropriateness, quality, color selection, packaging and storage, price, paint types, and painting accessories, you can make sure that you choose the best paint set for your child's painting project.

Providing your child with the right painting supplies can spark creativity, stimulate imagination, and help develop important cognitive and motor skills.