There is something so lovely about setting out a fresh box of crayons and a few coloring pages. It doesn’t need to be complicated: a little space to create, a few colors to choose from, and permission to make something entirely their own.
When it comes to choosing those crayons, I keep coming back to Crayola. I love the reliable pigment, the familiar colors, and just how many options there are for different stages of coloring.
Let’s talk about non-toxic crayons
I know it’s popular to explore beeswax crayons and brands that put “non-toxic” front and center. I understand the appeal—we all want to feel good about the supplies we put into our children’s hands.
But here’s something that can get overlooked: Crayola crayons are non-toxic, too. According to Crayola’s safety information, its art products are non-toxic. That may not be the first thing you associate with the familiar brand, but you don’t have to choose a specialty beeswax crayon to find a non-toxic option.
For me, the dependable color is what makes Crayola a favorite. I want crayons that put down the color I’m expecting and make everyday coloring feel easy and enjoyable.
Choose a set that matches your child’s age and follow the package directions. Non-toxic means safe for the intended art use; crayons aren’t meant to be eaten.
Eight colors. So much to make.
For young children who are ready for crayons, I like to start with a smaller selection. Eight colors are plenty for a blue sky, a green dinosaur, or a wonderfully unexpected purple sun.
My pick is Crayola Large Crayons in an eight-color set. The larger shape gives little hands more to hold, and a small collection keeps the choice simple: pick a color and get going.
I like this two-pack because it gives you a backup of every color. When the favorite blue disappears under the sofa or the red breaks, there’s another one ready to go.
See the large crayons two-pack on AmazonA little less snap!
Speaking of broken crayons: if your child grips everything with enthusiasm, Crayola Twistables are the ones I’d reach for.
The wax sits inside a hard plastic barrel, so their hand squeezes the casing rather than a bare crayon. That helps protect the crayon from breaking in their grip. Just twist the end to bring up more color—no paper to peel and no sharpening needed.
They aren’t completely unbreakable: the exposed wax can still snap if too much is twisted out or pressed too hard. I’d start with just a little color showing. And even with a bigger set, you can put out only a few colors at a time.
See the Twistables set on AmazonBring on the whole rainbow.
If you’re a “go big or go home” kind of person, this is the collection for you: the 152-count Crayola Ultimate Crayon Collection.
It’s a wonderfully generous collection for the child who loves options, the family craft table, or anyone who enjoys finding just the right shade for a project. There are 152 crayons to explore, with plenty of variety to keep the ideas coming.
My favorite detail? It comes with a crayon sharpener! I love being able to freshen up a well-loved tip and keep coloring.
See the 152-count collection on AmazonA few good colors. Endless possibilities.
My favorite set depends on who is doing the coloring: a simple eight-color box to get started, Twistables for a firm grip, or a big collection for someone who loves the whole rainbow.
Whatever you choose, you don’t need a perfect craft setup to make a sweet memory. Put out some paper, pull up a chair, and see what they create.
Give those crayons a story to color.
Make a personalized coloring adventure filled with your child’s favorite things.
Choose a storyProduct reference: Crayola’s explanation of Twistables barrels. Check the linked listing for current pack details.