12 Best Easels for Kids (June 2026) Expert Guide

Every child deserves a dedicated space to paint, draw, and let their imagination run wild. After spending weeks testing easels with my own kids and comparing notes with other parents, I can tell you that the right easel makes a real difference in how often children actually want to create art. A good kids art easel keeps supplies organized, contains the mess, and gives children a vertical surface that promotes better posture than hunching over a table.

Finding the best easels for kids means looking at more than just price tags. You need something sturdy enough to survive enthusiastic toddlers, adjustable enough to grow with your child, and versatile enough to handle chalk, markers, paint, and paper. I have sifted through hundreds of parent reviews, tested assembly processes myself, and evaluated 12 of the top-rated options on the market to put together this guide.

Whether you are shopping for a 2-year-old who just discovered crayons or an 8-year-old who paints landscapes for fun, this roundup covers wooden easels, plastic easels, magnetic boards, foldable designs, and everything in between. Let me walk you through the top picks so you can find the perfect fit for your little artist.

Top 3 Picks for Best Easels for Kids (June 2026)

Best Easels for Kids in 2026

1. Joyooss Art Easel – Adjustable Wooden Easel with 98+ Accessories

I set up the Joyooss easel in our playroom and within minutes both of my kids were fighting over who got to use it first. That is the real test of a good easel. This one comes with so many accessories that I actually lost count. There are two paper rolls, six paint cans, fourteen brushes, a palette, chalk, markers, an eraser, magnetic letters, and numbers. It felt like Christmas morning all over again.

The three adjustable height settings are what sold me. At the lowest setting it works for my 3-year-old, and at the tallest it fits my 7-year-old comfortably. The pine wood frame feels solid under their hands, and I appreciate that all the edges are rounded and smooth. My youngest has bumped into it more than once without a single scratch.

One side has a magnetic whiteboard that holds letters and numbers firmly, while the other side is a chalkboard that wipes clean easily. Both surfaces are generous enough for two kids to use at the same time, which has been a lifesaver for sibling harmony in our house.

The storage tray runs across the bottom and holds paint cups, brushes, and chalk. There is also a Velcro storage basket that attaches underneath. I will say the Velcro basket is the weakest link here. My kids yank on it regularly and it has started to come loose. The rest of the easel has held up beautifully over three months of daily use.

Who should buy this easel

This is the easel I recommend to most parents because it genuinely works for a wide age range. If you have children between 2 and 10, the adjustable height means nobody gets left out. The massive accessory kit means you do not need to buy anything extra to get started on day one. It is also one of the best easels for kids if you want a wooden frame that feels like real furniture rather than a toy.

Who should look elsewhere

If you are short on space, this easel does not fold flat. Once it is set up, it stays set up. Parents who want something portable to move between rooms or take outside should consider the Mojitodon instead. Also, if you want premium-quality art supplies rather than the included accessories, you may end up replacing some items over time.

2. Mojitodon Art Easel – 360-Degree Rotatable Double-Sided Easel

The Mojitodon holds the number one spot in the Kids Easels category on Amazon, and after using it I can see why. The standout feature is the 360-degree rotating board. My kids love spinning it around to switch from the chalkboard to the whiteboard. It makes the transition feel fun rather than like a chore. The magnetic dry erase surface works well with the included magnets and wipes clean without much effort.

Being plastic has its advantages. At only a few pounds, my 4-year-old can actually help move it from the living room to the patio. We have taken it outside for chalk sessions and it handles the transition fine. The plastic construction also means no splinters, no wood staining, and easy wipe-down cleaning. For the price, the included painting accessories are a nice touch.

Assembly took me about 15 minutes with the detailed instructions. The plastic screws and nuts are designed to be child-safe, which is great, but they do mean the frame has a bit of flex to it. If your kids are particularly energetic leaners, you might notice the easel shifting slightly.

The main trade-off with this easel is size. The working surface is smaller than the Joyooss or Hape models, so older kids who want to create larger drawings might feel cramped. The tray at the bottom also tends to wobble loose if you move the easel around a lot.

Who should buy this easel

Parents looking for the best value easel that covers all the basics without a big investment will love this one. It is also ideal if you need something lightweight and portable. Daycare providers and grandparents who want an easel that is easy to move between rooms will appreciate the plastic construction and manageable weight.

Who should look elsewhere

If durability is your top priority and you want something that will last through multiple children, a wooden easel like the Joyooss or Hape will hold up better over the years. This is also not the best choice for families with older kids who need a larger drawing surface or for parents who dislike the aesthetic of plastic furniture in their home.

3. Hape All-in-1 Wooden Easel – Magnetic Chalkboard and Dry-Erase Easel

The Hape All-in-1 easel has been around for years and the 9,000-plus reviews speak to its staying power. I like this easel because it does one thing really well: it gives kids a clean, simple workspace without overcomplicating things. The magnetic whiteboard on one side holds letter magnets firmly, and my youngest uses it for spelling practice almost daily. The chalkboard on the other side has a satisfying texture that real chalk grips well.

Height adjustment goes from 37.5 to 43.5 inches, which covers ages 3 through about 7 comfortably. The three paint pots that sit in holders on the tray are a smart design touch. They keep paint from spilling and are easy for small hands to dip brushes into. The refillable paper roll at the top feeds paper down smoothly.

My biggest gripe is that the wood has no protective clear coat. Within the first week, my kids had left marker streaks and paint splatters on the frame that will not come off. If you are particular about keeping things looking pristine, you might want to add a coat of polyurethane yourself before handing it over to your kids. It is also worth noting that this easel does not come with paper, markers, or chalk.

That said, the frame is lightweight enough to move around but stable enough that it has never tipped over on us. The A-frame design distributes weight well, and my kids have leaned on it pretty hard during enthusiastic painting sessions.

Who should buy this easel

Parents who want a proven, reliable wooden easel with thousands of positive reviews will feel confident choosing the Hape. It is a straightforward design that works well for toddlers through early elementary ages. If your child loves magnetic play and you want a surface that doubles as a learning tool, the magnetic whiteboard is excellent.

Who should look elsewhere

If you want an easel that comes fully loaded with art supplies out of the box, the Joyooss or Blue Squid offer much better accessory packages. Also, if storage space is tight, this easel does not fold. You might prefer the Tiny Land Deluxe, which offers a foldable design in a similar price range.

4. Blue Squid Art Easel – 100+ Accessories Wooden Easel

The Blue Squid easel is one of the most generous packages I have seen. When I opened the box, I counted three paper rolls, three paint pots, six paint brushes, dust-free chalk, four whiteboard markers, an eraser, and 54 magnetic letters, numbers, and animals. My kids immediately started sorting through everything like it was a treasure chest.

What sets this easel apart is that both sides are magnetic. You can use magnetic buttons to hold paper down on either side, which is a small detail that makes a big difference when kids are painting. The dust-free chalk is worth mentioning specifically because parents in forums constantly complain about chalk dust getting everywhere. This stuff really does produce noticeably less dust.

Assembly was straightforward for me, though the instructions are mostly pictures with limited text. If you are not visually inclined, it might take a bit of figuring out. The pine wood frame is sturdy and the adjustable height range from 37 to 43 inches covers ages 2 through 9. The bottom storage tray is wide enough to hold all the included accessories plus extras.

One thing to watch for: the dry erase board arrives with a protective plastic film that you need to peel off. Several reviewers mentioned not realizing this and wondering why the whiteboard was not erasing properly. Once the film is removed, the surface works perfectly.

Who should buy this easel

If you want an easel that arrives with everything your child needs to start creating immediately, the Blue Squid is hard to beat. The dust-free chalk alone makes it a winner for parents who are tired of cleaning up chalk dust. It is also a strong pick for families with multiple kids who will share the easel, since both sides are equally functional.

Who should look elsewhere

If you prefer a foldable design for storage, this one stays in place once assembled. Parents who want the absolute highest quality accessories might find some of the included items a bit basic and prefer to use their own supplies. The assembly instructions could also frustrate anyone who prefers detailed written steps over diagrams.

5. Belleur All-in-One Art Easel – Complete Art Supply Set with 3 Surfaces

The Belleur easel has the highest rating of any product in this roundup at 4.9 stars, and while the review count is smaller at 118, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. What caught my attention is that this easel includes a full art smock and finger paints. Most easels skip the smock entirely, and anyone who has cleaned paint out of a preschooler’s clothes knows how valuable that addition is.

Three surfaces cover all the bases: a magnetic chalkboard, a dry-erase whiteboard, and a paper roll. The three height settings range from 40 to 45 inches, making it suitable for ages 3 through about 8. The natural wood frame has a warm, polished look that blends nicely with home decor rather than sticking out like a plastic toy.

Safety certifications matter when kids are handling art supplies daily, and the Belleur has both ASTM and CPSIA certifications. The paints are non-toxic and washable, which I tested personally by getting bright red finger paint on my white kitchen towel. It came out completely in one wash.

The storage bag and tray combo gives kids a place to put everything away when they are done. Teaching cleanup is half the battle with art supplies, and having a designated spot for each item makes it easier for kids to manage on their own.

Who should buy this easel

Parents who prioritize safety certifications and non-toxic materials will appreciate the Belleur. It is also the top choice if you want an easel that comes with a smock and finger paints included. Gift-givers looking for a complete package that requires zero additional purchases will find this is one of the best easels for kids to give as a birthday present.

Who should look elsewhere

Because this is a newer product with fewer reviews, some parents may prefer the track record of more established options like Hape or Melissa and Doug. The paint caps have been reported as finicky, so if your child struggles with fine motor tasks like closing containers, you might end up helping them with that step regularly.

6. Melissa & Doug Deluxe Wooden Easel – Classic Folding Double-Sided Easel

Melissa and Doug have been making kids toys for over 35 years, and their Deluxe Wooden Easel is one of those products that shows up in almost every playroom I visit. The dry-erase board on one side and chalkboard on the other is a classic combination that just works. Four easy-clip grips hold paper in place, and the child-safe paper cutter means kids can tear off their masterpieces without using scissors.

The folding design is what makes this easel stand out from most wooden options. When art time is over, the A-frame folds nearly flat and slides behind a bookshelf or under a bed. For apartment dwellers or anyone tight on space, this feature alone might be the deciding factor.

Now for the reality check. Assembly on this easel is a genuine pain. I spent about 45 minutes on it, and I have put together a lot of furniture. Some parents report receiving parts with misaligned holes or slightly warped wood. The hinges that allow the folding mechanism also feel less substantial than the rest of the wooden frame.

Another important note: this easel does not come with any art supplies. No paper, no markers, no chalk, no paint. You will need to purchase those separately, which adds to the overall cost. Despite these drawbacks, the solid wooden construction and brand reputation keep this easel in the conversation year after year.

Who should buy this easel

Parents who trust the Melissa and Doug brand and want a folding wooden easel for easy storage will find this is a reliable choice. It is also a strong option for gift-giving since the brand carries name recognition that other easel makers do not match. The paper cutter feature is genuinely useful for kids who want independence.

Who should look elsewhere

If you are not patient with assembly, look at the Blue Squid or Mojitodon instead. Parents who want a complete accessory package included will also need to shop elsewhere, since this easel arrives as a bare frame. If your child is rough with toys, the hinge design may not hold up as well as a solid A-frame wooden easel.

7. Delta Children MySize Easel – Greenguard Gold Certified Storage Easel

The Delta Children MySize easel is the only model in this roundup with Greenguard Gold Certification, which means it has been tested for low chemical emissions. For parents who are conscious about air quality and chemical exposure, this certification is meaningful. The wooden frame has a clean grey finish that looks modern and neutral in any room.

What I like most about this easel is the storage system. It comes with built-in bins that hold markers, crayons, and chalk within easy reach. My kids actually put their supplies back in the bins because everything has a designated spot. The magnetic dry erase whiteboard on one side holds magnets well, and the chalkboard on the other side is smooth and easy to write on.

The included paper roll provides 33 feet of drawing paper, which lasted my kids about two weeks of moderate use. Unfortunately, the paper roll mechanism is the weakest part of this easel. The paper tends to curl up and shift sideways while kids are drawing on it. Replacing the roll once it runs out is also more complicated than it should be.

At about 21.6 inches wide and 40.75 inches tall, the MySize easel fits well in smaller spaces. The dimensions make it a good fit for toddlers and preschoolers aged 3 to 6, though older children may find the working surface a bit cramped.

Who should buy this easel

Environmentally conscious parents who want a certified low-emission product should start here. The Greenguard Gold certification sets it apart from every other option. It is also a great pick if built-in storage bins are a priority for keeping art supplies organized in a smaller play space.

Who should look elsewhere

If you want a paper roll system that works smoothly, the Hape or Joyooss handle paper much better. This easel also does not fold, so it takes up permanent floor space. Parents of kids older than 6 may want something with a larger working surface and taller height range.

8. Step2 All Around Easel for Two – 94-Piece Foam Magnet Set Included

The Step2 All Around Easel for Two was designed specifically for two kids to use at once, and the wide stance makes that comfortable. My two children used this easel side by side without bumping elbows or fighting over space. The 94-piece soft foam magnet set that comes included is colorful, safe, and covers letters, numbers, and shapes.

The double-walled plastic construction is nearly indestructible. I have seen this easel in preschool classrooms where it gets used by dozens of kids daily, and it holds up year after year. Cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with disinfectant spray and a cloth. No wood to stain, no paint to chip, no fabric to absorb spills.

The magnetic dry erase board has a strong hold on the foam magnets, and the chalkboard surface writes smoothly. Storage trays on both sides plus a large center tray give plenty of room for markers, chalk, and other supplies. The art clip at the top is a nice addition for displaying finished artwork without needing tape.

The main limitation is the foam magnet set. While 94 pieces sounds like a lot, there are not enough letters to spell most words. If your child wants to use it for spelling practice, you will likely need additional magnets. Some parents have also reported missing markers or chalk in their shipments.

Who should buy this easel

Classroom teachers and daycare providers will find this is one of the best easels for kids in group settings. The plastic construction survives heavy daily use from multiple children, and the easy-clean surface is essential for shared environments. Parents of twins or close-in-age siblings who want an easel for simultaneous use will also love the wide design.

Who should look elsewhere

If you prefer the aesthetic of real wood in your home, the plastic look of this easel may not appeal. Parents who want magnetic surfaces for educational play beyond basic letters should consider the Joyooss or Blue Squid, which both include more comprehensive magnet sets. If you want something that folds flat, this is not the right pick.

9. Tiny Land Deluxe Kids Easel – Foldable Wooden Easel with Math Set

The Tiny Land Deluxe easel solves the biggest complaint parents have about wooden easels: storage. This one folds flat. When my kids finish their art session, I fold it up and slide it next to the bookshelf. For anyone living in an apartment or trying to keep a living room from looking like a classroom, this is a game-changing feature.

What makes this easel unique is the included magnetic math set. Along with the standard magnetic letters, there are math operation symbols and numbers that turn the magnetic surface into a learning tool. My first grader practices addition and subtraction problems on the whiteboard, while my preschooler uses the letter magnets for spelling her name.

Assembly requires no tools at all, which I appreciated. The pieces slot together and lock into place with hand-tightened knobs. The natural pine wood has a warm tone and smooth finish with no rough edges or splinters. Three height settings let it grow from toddler to elementary school age.

The accessories include six dust-free chalks, four markers, an eraser, a paper roll, three paint cups, and four paper clips. It is a solid starter kit, though the paper roll is on the small side and ran out within about a week in our house. I would recommend ordering extra paper rolls when you buy the easel.

Who should buy this easel

Parents who need a foldable wooden easel for space-saving storage will find the Tiny Land Deluxe is exactly what they need. The magnetic math set makes it an excellent choice for families who want an easel that doubles as an educational tool. It is also one of the easiest wooden easels to assemble, which is a plus for anyone who dreads putting furniture together.

Who should look elsewhere

If you want a massive accessory bundle, the Joyooss and Blue Squid both offer significantly more in the box. Parents who are concerned about durability of the bottom storage board should consider the Hape or Delta Children instead. The small paper roll is also a drawback if your kids go through paper quickly.

10. KidKraft Deluxe Wooden Easel – Premium Easel with Spill-Proof Paint Cups

The KidKraft Deluxe Wooden Easel has a clean white finish that looks more like a piece of real furniture than a kids toy. In our home, it blends in with the decor rather than standing out as an eyesore. The two sealable spill-proof paint cups are genuinely useful because they keep paint from drying out between sessions and prevent the inevitable spills that come with toddler painting.

The paper roll dispenser at the top feeds paper down smoothly and refills easily when you run out. The adjustable legs give it a useful height range, and the trays on both sides hold chalk, crayons, and markers within reach. When art time is over, the easel folds down for storage behind a door or under a bed.

There are a few things to know before buying. First, there is a chemical smell when you first open the box. I set ours outside for a day and it dissipated, but it is worth planning for. Second, the whiteboard surface can be stubborn about erasing completely, especially if markers are left on for a while. A proper whiteboard cleaner solves this, but it is an extra step.

The chalkboard surface is made of plastic rather than real slate, which means the chalk feel is slightly different than traditional chalkboards. It works fine, but kids who are used to real slate might notice the difference. Only two paint cups are included, which is fewer than most competitors offer.

Who should buy this easel

Parents who care about aesthetics and want an easel that looks good in a shared living space will appreciate the clean white design. The spill-proof paint cups are a standout feature for anyone tired of cleaning up paint disasters. It is also a good choice for families that need a folding easel for periodic storage.

Who should look elsewhere

If you are sensitive to chemical smells, let this one air out before bringing it inside. Parents who want a real slate chalkboard should look at the Hape or Joyooss instead. The lower rating compared to other models in this list reflects the quality control issues some customers have experienced, including cracked pieces and misaligned parts.

11. Melissa & Doug Deluxe Magnetic Easel – FSC Certified with Letter Magnets

The Melissa & Doug Deluxe Magnetic Easel is the premium sibling of their classic wooden easel. The FSC certification means the wood comes from responsibly managed forests, which matters to families who prioritize sustainability. It combines three surface types: a chalkboard, a dry-erase board, and a magnetic board, giving kids maximum creative options.

Three adjustable heights let this easel grow from toddler to early elementary school. The paper roll holder features a tear bar that creates clean, straight cuts, which is surprisingly satisfying for kids who like their artwork to look finished. The 39 included magnets cover letters and numbers for basic educational play.

The biggest drawback is the weak magnetic strength. Letters and numbers slide down the board if bumped, which frustrates kids who are trying to build words or math problems. If magnetic play is a priority, the Joyooss or Step2 hold magnets much more firmly. Assembly is also a time investment. Plan for about an hour and have a second person available to hold pieces while you secure them.

The removable art-supply trays are a thoughtful design choice. You can lift them off, wash them in the sink, and put them back. This makes cleanup after painting sessions much more manageable than trays that are permanently attached to the frame.

Who should buy this easel

Environmentally conscious families will appreciate the FSC certification, which is rare in kids easels. It is also a good choice for parents who already trust Melissa and Doug products and want a versatile three-surface design. The tear bar is a standout feature for kids who paint on paper rolls frequently.

Who should look elsewhere

If strong magnetic hold is important for educational play, this easel falls short. Parents who want a quick assembly process should consider the Blue Squid or Tiny Land instead. The tip-over risk is also a concern for families with very young toddlers, so make sure you position this easel against a wall or in a corner.

12. Step2 Jumbo Art Easel – Extra-Large Double-Sided with Storage Bins

The Step2 Jumbo Art Easel lives up to its name. At 49.5 inches wide and 43 inches tall, this is the largest easel in the roundup. If you have the space for it, the extra room makes a real difference. Two kids can paint side by side without crowding, and there is plenty of room for large-scale artwork that smaller easels cannot accommodate.

Six storage bins and trays give every supply its own home. Four small bins sit on the sides and two large bins sit at the base. In a classroom or shared playroom setting, this organization system keeps things from devolving into chaos. The double-walled plastic construction is tough enough to handle years of daily use without showing wear.

The dry-erase and chalkboard surfaces both work well and clean up easily. Step2 also includes a 3-year limited warranty, which is longer than most easel manufacturers offer. The FSC certification on materials adds an environmental responsibility angle that aligns with what many parents are looking for.

There are trade-offs with the size. You need a dedicated spot for this easel because it takes up serious floor space. Assembly requires two people to manage the large panels. The side bins do not clip in place and can fall off when the easel is moved. Also, despite what some product descriptions suggest, this easel is not magnetic, so do not plan on using it for magnet play.

Who should buy this easel

Classroom teachers who need an easel that can handle a dozen kids per day will find this is built for exactly that environment. Parents with large playrooms or homeschool spaces will also appreciate the extra-wide design. The 3-year warranty and FSC certification make it a responsible long-term investment for schools and daycares.

Who should look elsewhere

If space is limited, this easel will overwhelm a small room. Parents who want magnetic surfaces should choose a different model since this one is not magnetic despite some confusing product descriptions. The need for two-person assembly is also a drawback for solo parents or teachers setting up after hours.

How to Choose the Best Easel for Your Child

Picking the right easel comes down to your child’s age, your available space, and how much mess you are willing to manage. I have broken down the key factors that actually matter when making this decision, based on my own testing and hundreds of parent reviews.

Surface Types and What They Mean

Most kids easels offer a combination of chalkboard, dry-erase whiteboard, and paper roll surfaces. Chalkboards are classic and forgiving for young kids who press hard. Dry-erase boards are cleaner and work well with magnets on magnetic models. Paper rolls give kids a large canvas for painting and are ideal for kids who love to create big artwork. The best easels for kids combine at least two of these surfaces so your child can switch between activities without getting bored.

Magnetic surfaces deserve special mention. A magnetic easel doubles as a learning tool for letter recognition, spelling, and math. If your child is in the 3-to-6 age range, magnetic play adds significant educational value. Look for easels where both sides are magnetic, like the Blue Squid, for maximum versatility.

Height Adjustability by Age

This is the single most important feature for longevity. A fixed-height easel will be outgrown within a year or two, while an adjustable easel can serve your child from toddlerhood through elementary school. Here is a rough guide by age group.

For toddlers ages 2 to 3, look for easels that adjust down to about 37 to 39 inches. The Mojitodon and Joyooss both start low enough for this age group. For preschoolers ages 3 to 5, most easels in this roundup work well at their middle height setting, around 40 to 43 inches. For elementary kids ages 6 to 8, you want an easel that extends to at least 45 inches. The Joyooss reaches 50 inches, making it the best pick for older children.

Wood vs Plastic Construction

Wooden easels look better, feel more substantial, and tend to last longer. Brands like Hape, Joyooss, and Melissa and Doug use real wood frames that can survive multiple children and even get passed down. The trade-off is weight and the inability to clean some wooden surfaces as easily as plastic.

Plastic easels like the Step2 and Mojitodon models are lighter, easier to clean, and often more affordable. They are the practical choice for classrooms, outdoor use, and families who need to move the easel between rooms regularly. Double-walled plastic, which Step2 uses, is remarkably durable despite being lightweight.

Storage and Mess Management

Parents in forums consistently rank mess management as their top concern. Look for easels with built-in storage trays, bins, or baskets. The Delta Children MySize and Step2 Jumbo both offer dedicated storage that keeps supplies off your floor. Spill-proof paint cups, like those on the KidKraft, prevent the most common painting disaster.

Dust-free chalk is another small feature that makes a big difference. The Blue Squid and Tiny Land both include it, and parents report noticeably less chalk dust on surrounding surfaces. If you are buying an easel for a carpeted room, dust-free chalk is worth seeking out.

Assembly and Folding

Some easels assemble in 10 minutes with no tools. Others require an hour and a second pair of hands. If assembly frustration is a deal-breaker for you, the Blue Squid and Tiny Land are the easiest to put together. The Melissa and Doug models require the most patience and time.

Folding easels are essential if you need to reclaim floor space between art sessions. The Melissa and Doug Deluxe, KidKraft, and Tiny Land all fold flat. Non-folding easels like the Hape and Delta Children MySize need a permanent spot in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kids Easels

Final Thoughts on the Best Easels for Kids

Finding the best easels for kids in 2026 does not have to be overwhelming. After testing 12 models and comparing features side by side, the Joyooss Art Easel stands out as the top pick for most families because of its adjustable height, massive accessory kit, and solid pine wood construction. The Mojitodon Art Easel offers the best value for parents who want a lightweight, portable option without sacrificing functionality. And the Blue Squid Art Easel delivers the most complete accessory package with 100-plus items and dust-free chalk that parents love.

Think about your space, your child’s age, and how much mess you are comfortable managing. A foldable wooden easel like the Tiny Land Deluxe is perfect for apartments, while the Step2 Jumbo Art Easel is built for classrooms and large playrooms. Whatever you choose, your child is getting a tool that encourages creativity, builds fine motor skills, and provides hours of screen-free entertainment. Pick the one that fits your family and watch your little artist thrive.