Top Kids Easels for Creative Play and Learning
The Melissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Easel is our top pick for most families. It offers a sturdy wooden frame, a chalkboard, a dry-erase board, and a paper roll, making it versatile for various activities. Its main advantage is the included accessories and dual-sided design. A limitation is its size, which may be too tall for toddlers.
Choosing the right easel can spark a child’s creativity and provide hours of entertainment. With so many options, from simple magnetic boards to full art stations, it can be overwhelming to decide which one fits your space and your child’s age.
We compared popular models from leading brands to help you find a durable, safe, and engaging easel. Our picks range from compact tabletop versions for small spaces to large standing models that grow with your child.
The top picks, ranked
Melissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Easel
A sturdy wooden easel with a chalkboard on one side and a dry-erase board on the other. Includes a paper roll, magnetic letters, and a child-safe paint cup holder.
Pros
- Dual-sided design offers two activities
- Durable wood construction
- Accessories included
Cons
- Takes up floor space
- Assembly required
Crayola Wooden Table Top Easel
A compact tabletop easel that folds flat for storage. Features a chalkboard, dry-erase board, and paper clip. Includes a few accessories.
Pros
- Portable and space-saving
- Simple design
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Smaller work area
- Not for standing use
Step2 All Around Easel for Kids
A plastic easel with a chalkboard, dry-erase board, and a built-in paper roll. Features a tray for supplies and is easy to wipe down.
Pros
- Sturdy and stable
- Three work surfaces
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Less aesthetically pleasing
- Paper roll not refillable with standard rolls
KidKraft Wooden Easel with Paper Roll
A solid wood easel with a chalkboard, dry-erase board, and a paper roll. Includes a storage tray and is designed to withstand rough use.
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction
- Large storage tray
- Two-sided design
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Requires assembly
Joyin Magnetic Drawing Board for Kids
A plastic magnetic drawing board that uses a stylus to create images with magnetic dots. Includes stamps and is completely mess-free.
Pros
- No paint or chalk needed
- Lightweight and portable
- Encourages fine motor skills
Cons
- Limited to small drawings
- Magnetic dots can be lost
Hape All-in-One Wooden Art Easel
A wooden easel with a chalkboard, dry-erase board, and a paper roll. Includes a paint cup holder and a shelf. Designed with a modern look.
Pros
- Stylish and compact
- All-in-one design
- No sharp edges
Cons
- Smaller than some models
- No magnetic features
Melissa & Doug My First Tabletop Easel
A tabletop easel with a chalkboard and dry-erase board, designed for group use. Includes a paint cup holder and is easy to store.
Pros
- Compact size fits on tables
- Durable construction
- Great for sharing
Cons
- No paper roll
- Limited height for standing
The lineup, side by side
| # | Model | Dimensions | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Melissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Easel | 24.5 x 24 x 50 inches | Best overall for versatility | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Crayola Wooden Table Top Easel | 18 x 14 x 3 inches (folded) | Best for small spaces | 8.8 | Check price |
| 3 | Step2 All Around Easel for Kids | 24.5 x 23.5 x 47 inches | Best for toddlers | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | KidKraft Wooden Easel with Paper Roll | 27.5 x 26.5 x 50 inches | Best for durability | 9.1 | Check price |
| 5 | Joyin Magnetic Drawing Board for Kids | 24 x 18 inches | Best for mess-free drawing | 8.5 | Check price |
| 6 | Hape All-in-One Wooden Art Easel | 24.5 x 21.5 x 50 inches | Best for artistic versatility | 8.9 | Check price |
| 7 | Melissa & Doug My First Tabletop Easel | 18 x 16 x 22 inches | Best for preschool classrooms | 8.7 | Check price |
How to choose
Good to know
What is the best age for a kids easel?
Most easels are suitable for ages 2 and up. Toddlers can use tabletop models, while older children can handle standing easels. Always follow the manufacturer’s age recommendations for safety.
Are wooden or plastic easels better?
Wooden easels are typically more durable and aesthetically pleasing, but they can be heavier and more expensive. Plastic easels are lightweight and easy to clean, but they may not last as long. Both are good options depending on your priorities.
Can I use regular chalk on kids easels?
Yes, most chalkboards on kids easels accept standard chalk. However, some easels come with their own chalk. Dustless chalk is also available to minimize mess.
How do I clean a kids easel?
For dry-erase boards, use a soft cloth or eraser. For chalkboards, use a dry eraser or a damp cloth. Some boards can be cleaned with water and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners that might damage the surface.
Are kids easels safe for toddlers?
Yes, if designed for that age group. Look for stable bases, rounded corners, and non-toxic materials. Always supervise toddlers during use to prevent accidents.
Can I buy replacement parts for easels?
Many brands offer replacement parts such as paper rolls, paint cups, or chalkboard trays. Check with the manufacturer or look for generic replacements online.
What is the weight limit for kids easels?
Kids easels are not meant to support a child’s weight. They are for art activities only. Avoid letting children climb on the easel to prevent tipping.
Do easels come with paint cups?
Some do, but not all. Models like the Melissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Easel include paint cups. If yours doesn’t, you can purchase clip-on cups separately.
The verdict
For most families, the Melissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Easel is the best choice due to its durability, dual-sided design, and included accessories. If space is limited, the Crayola Tabletop Easel is a practical alternative. For toddlers, the Step2 All Around Easel offers a stable and safe introduction to art.
