Coloring is one of the least messy art activities, but toddlers and preschoolers can still find creative ways to decorate walls, tables, sofas and themselves. A few simple steps prevent most messes.
Choose washable supplies
- Washable markers for kids under about 6
- Washable crayons
- Colored pencils, which rarely stain
Check labels: "washable" can mean washable from skin and clothes, and some brands also wash from walls.
Protect surfaces
- Table cover or a large tray
- Placemats with a lip
- Paper taped down so coloring stays on the paper
- Floor mat under the chair
Protect clothes
- An old shirt or smock
- Roll up sleeves
Set clear rules
- "Crayons stay on paper."
- "Markers get their caps back."
- "Coloring happens at the table."
Keep rules simple and consistent.
Supervise little ones
Toddlers explore everything. Supervise closely, and keep markers out of reach when you can’t watch.
Simple pages, less frustration
Frustrated kids scribble beyond the page. Simple pages they can manage, like Trace Then Color: Baby Animals or Trace Then Color: Cute Cartoon Animals, keep coloring calm.
When accidents happen
- Washable marker on skin: soap and water.
- Washable marker on clothes: rinse with cold water and wash as directed on the label.
- Crayon on walls: a damp cloth with a little dish soap, or a melamine sponge, tested in a hidden spot first.
- Crayon on fabric: scrape off excess, then follow the fabric’s care instructions or the crayon maker’s stain guidance.
Always test cleaning methods in a hidden area first.
Questions parents ask
Are washable markers really washable?
Mostly, from skin and many fabrics. Results vary by brand and surface.
How do I stop my toddler drawing on walls?
Supervise, redirect, give a big paper "wall" (tape paper to the wall) and keep markers out of reach.
Are crayons or markers less messy?
Crayons and colored pencils are usually less messy than markers.
About Kevin Coulston
Kevin Coulston is a cartoonist and member of the National Cartoonists Society who has written and illustrated more than 100 drawing, tracing and coloring books for kids, including the Trace Then Color series. Meet Kevin or browse all his books on FirstArtBooks.com.
