Finding The Right Art Supplies For Kids
When looking for art supplies for kids, many parents face a common challenge. With so many options available, it can be hard to know what will truly inspire creativity while being practical and safe.
Choosing the right supplies involves balancing several factors. You want materials that are engaging but also easy to use and clean up. Some sets focus on variety, while others prioritize portability or durability. The price range can vary widely, and more expensive doesn’t always mean better for every child.
This guide will help you understand what matters most when selecting art supplies for kids. It will clarify common confusions and offer a clear way to think about your choices.
What To Keep In Mind When Choosing Art Supplies For Kids
Kids’ art supplies come in many forms: colored pencils, markers, sketchbooks, craft kits, and more. Each type serves different creative needs and age groups. It’s important to consider what kind of art your child enjoys and the setting where they’ll use these tools.
Some parents focus on sets that include a wide range of colors and tools to encourage exploration. Others may prefer simpler or themed kits that are easier to manage. Safety and non-toxicity are always key concerns, especially for younger children.
Also think about how the supplies will be stored and transported. Some kits double as cases or desks for convenience, which can be helpful for on-the-go creativity.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
One frequent mistake is buying large, expensive sets that overwhelm kids or include items they won’t use. Another is choosing materials that are too advanced or require extra skills, leading to frustration.
It’s also easy to overlook the importance of paper quality and size. Good sketchbooks and coloring pads can make a big difference in the art experience.
Lastly, not all markers and pencils are washable or safe for all ages. Checking for these details can save headaches later.
With these points in mind, you’ll be better prepared to find art supplies that suit your child’s interests and needs without confusion.
Below, you’ll find a selection of art supplies grouped by type and purpose. Each has been chosen to help different kinds of young artists express themselves with ease and joy.
Crayola Create ‘n Carry Art Set
This set stands out among the Best Art Supplies for Kids by combining a lap desk and storage case for easy creativity on the go.
This 75-piece Crayola art kit offers a complete set of crayons and markers that lets kids craft, draw, and color wherever they want. Its unique 2-in-1 design doubles as a lap desk and a carrying case, solving the problem of messy art supplies and lack of workspace.
Using this set feels convenient and inspiring because all the materials stay organized and accessible. Kids can work comfortably on their laps or any flat surface, which helps maintain focus and enjoy art time without interruptions.
Key Benefits for Young Artists
- Compact lap desk design keeps supplies organized and portable
- Includes 16 crayons and 16 markers for versatile coloring options
- Durable case doubles as a stable workspace anywhere
- Bright colors encourage creativity and fun
- Ideal holiday or gift set for boys and girls
Considerations Before Buying
- Limited to 75 pieces, may not suit advanced art needs
- Lap desk size best fits younger children, not adults
- Markers are washable but still require some care to avoid stains
Who This Set Works For
This art set is perfect for parents wanting a tidy, all-in-one kit for their young kids who love to draw and color anywhere. It removes the hassle of scattered supplies and lack of workspace, making creative sessions smoother and less stressful. For best results, encourage kids to use the lap desk on a stable surface to keep markers and crayons neat and avoid spills.
You’ll appreciate the thoughtful design that combines portability and function, making it a reliable choice for holiday gifts or everyday use. It’s a solid pick for families valuing convenience alongside creative play.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Young children starting art projects | Simple, organized kit with safe, washable supplies |
| Travel and on-the-go creativity | Compact lap desk design keeps everything contained and portable |
| Holiday gifting for kids | Attractive, complete set ideal for festive occasions |
| Parents seeking easy cleanup | Washable markers and crayons minimize mess concerns |
Yangmei Rainbow Colored Pencils
These are among the Best Art Supplies for Kids, offering unique multi-color cores that make drawing engaging and creative for young artists.
Yangmei Rainbow Colored Pencils are designed for kids who love to explore colors and creativity through drawing. These pencils feature 12 vibrant rainbow colors with unique cores blending multiple shades, which adds an exciting twist to regular coloring activities.
Using these pencils feels fun and inspiring, as the color shifts create beautiful gradients and surprises in every stroke. The durable wood casing and pre-sharpened tips help kids start drawing immediately without frustration.
Key Benefits for Young Artists
- Unique multi-color cores deliver dynamic and surprising color effects.
- Set of 12 vibrant and pigmented rainbow colors suitable for various projects.
- Durable black wood casing resists breakage during use.
- Pre-sharpened tips allow for immediate use straight from the box.
- Versatile for coloring books, doodling, sketching, and creative drawing.
- Safe materials suitable for kids ages 5 to 12.
- Compact and lightweight for easy handling by children.
Considerations Before Buying
- Color blending is random, which may not suit precise color control needs.
- Set includes only 12 pencils, which may limit palette variety for advanced artists.
- Primarily designed for kids aged 5-12, may not meet professional art supply standards.
Why This Works Well for Kids’ Creativity
This pencil set is ideal for children who enjoy experimenting with colors and want an engaging twist on regular colored pencils. It reduces the guesswork about which shade to choose by offering multiple colors in one core, encouraging playful creativity.
Parents and educators will appreciate the sturdy build and child-safe design, which means fewer worries about broken pencils or toxic materials. For best results, encourage kids to try layering and blending colors to fully enjoy the unique effects.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Young children aged 5-12 | Safe, easy-to-use design with engaging color effects that inspire creativity. |
| Creative drawing and coloring projects | Vibrant colors and multi-shade cores enhance artistic expression. |
| Gift giving for holidays and special occasions | Attractive packaging and versatile use make it a thoughtful present. |
| School and home art activities | Durable and ready-to-use pencils reduce setup time and frustration. |
Guirnd Colored Masking Tape Set
This set stands out among the Best Art Supplies for Kids by offering vibrant, easy-to-tear colored tapes perfect for creative projects.
The Guirnd Colored Masking Tape Set includes 12 vibrant colors of masking tape, each 1.7cm wide and 12 meters long. These tapes are designed to add color and creativity to kids’ art projects while being easy to tear and use. They can solve the challenge of finding colorful, versatile tapes that are safe and easy for children to handle.
Using this tape set feels intuitive and fun, allowing kids and adults to decorate, label, and craft without hassle. The high-quality textured paper ensures the tape is odorless and waterproof, making crafting more enjoyable and reliable. It’s a simple way to bring color and variety to any DIY activity.
Key Benefits for Creative Projects
- Includes 12 rich and vibrant colors to inspire creativity.
- Easy to tear by hand, suitable for kids’ dexterity levels.
- Long tape length (12m) ensures extended use for multiple projects.
- Made from environmentally friendly, odorless, and waterproof materials.
- Versatile for labeling, decorating, and sealing in various crafts.
- Comes with responsive customer service for support.
Considerations Before Buying
- The tape width (1.7cm) is narrow, which may limit coverage for larger surfaces.
- Colors are bright but not fluorescent or neon, which may affect some design preferences.
- No adhesive strength rating provided, so suitability on all surfaces may vary.
Who This Works Well For
This tape set is ideal for parents and educators looking for reliable, colorful tapes that kids can use safely in school or at home. It removes the guesswork of quality by providing consistent, easy-to-use tapes that won’t irritate or frustrate children. A tip for best results: test the tape on a small surface first to ensure it sticks well and removes cleanly.
It offers peace of mind with its eco-friendly, odorless design, making it safer for children’s use. Whether for labeling school supplies or crafting gifts, this set supports creative expression without mess or hassle.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Colorful school projects | Variety of vibrant colors helps kids decorate and personalize assignments |
| DIY birthday cards and gifts | Easy-to-tear tape adds decorative accents quickly and cleanly |
| Labeling and organizing | Different colors enable simple, color-coded labeling for kids’ supplies |
| Scrapbooking and journaling | Waterproof, textured paper tape adds durable, colorful details |
Hapikalor 9×12 Sketch Book 2-pack
This product is among the Best Art Supplies for Kids, offering durable, easy-to-remove acid-free paper perfect for creative activities.
This sketch book set includes two pads with 50 sheets each of heavy-weight bond paper that resists fading and tearing. It is designed for kids and adults to use for drawing, coloring, and painting with pencils, charcoals, and crayons. The acid-free paper helps preserve artwork over time.
Using this sketchbook feels reliable and comfortable thanks to its thick, quality paper that holds different media well. The easy-tear pages allow children to share or display their work without frustration, encouraging creativity and confidence in their skills.
Key Benefits for Young Artists
- Heavy-duty, acid-free paper ensures artwork lasts without fading.
- Easy-to-remove sheets minimize tearing and frustration.
- Large 9″x12″ page size offers ample space for creativity.
- Two-pack provides plenty of pages for multiple projects.
- Suitable for a variety of drawing tools including pencils and crayons.
- Manufactured with FSC-certified materials supporting responsible forestry.
- Budget-friendly option recommended by art students and parents alike.
Considerations Before Buying
- Spiral binding may be less durable with very rough handling.
- Paper thickness is ideal for dry media; not designed for heavy wet paints.
- Limited color options—only white paper included.
Who This Sketch Book Serves Well
This set is perfect for children and teens who want a reliable sketchbook for pencils, crayons, and charcoal. It removes the guesswork about paper quality and durability, which can be a source of frustration for beginners. A quick tip is to encourage kids to experiment with different dry art supplies to get the most out of the paper’s texture and weight.
Parents and educators will appreciate the acid-free, long-lasting paper that keeps kids’ creations safe for years. The two-pack format offers good value and enough space to explore various projects without running out too quickly. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to support early artistic development with trusted materials.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Kids practicing drawing skills | Heavy paper handles pencils and crayons without bleed-through |
| Art students on a budget | Two pads and 100 sheets total offer great value for practice |
| Gift for young artists | Acid-free, quality paper supports creativity and lasting keepsakes |
| Craft activities involving sketching | Easy-to-remove pages make sharing and displaying artwork simple |
Melissa & Doug Drawing Paper 2-pack
Among the Best Art Supplies for Kids, this drawing pad bundle offers large, easy-to-use sheets that encourage creativity for young artists.
This product is a set of two 9 x 12-inch sketch pads, each with 50 heavyweight sheets designed for kids to draw, color, or paint on. It solves the problem of needing durable, easy-to-tear paper that supports various art mediums without mess or frustration.
Using these pads feels smooth and satisfying because the paper works well with crayons, markers, pencils, and watercolors. Kids can confidently explore their creativity while parents appreciate the FSC-certified materials and the chance for screen-free, hands-on play.
What Makes These Drawing Pads Practical
- Generous sheet size inspires larger creative projects
- Heavyweight paper is sturdy for multiple art mediums
- Easy-to-tear sheets for sharing or framing artwork
- Two pads provide ample supply for ongoing creativity
- Supports fine motor skills and imaginative play
- FSC certified, promoting responsible forestry
- Suitable for kids ages 3 and up
Considerations Before You Buy
- Only includes paper pads; no drawing tools included
- Not spiral-bound, so pages may be less secure in transit
- Paper color is standard white, no textured or specialty sheets
What Parents Should Know
This drawing paper bundle is best for parents seeking a simple, reliable way to encourage kids’ creativity without adding extra supplies. It removes the hassle of finding durable paper that supports many mediums, helping kids enjoy art projects freely.
For better results, keep crayons, markers, or paints nearby so kids can switch between mediums easily. The FSC certification also offers peace of mind about environmental responsibility.
It’s a straightforward choice for families who want dependable art paper that grows with their child’s interests.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Young artists ages 3+ | Large, sturdy sheets that handle various art supplies safely |
| Parents wanting screen-free activities | Promotes hands-on creativity and fine motor skill development |
| Gift buyers for birthdays or holidays | Two-packs offer value and a practical, well-loved gift |
| Eco-conscious families | FSC-certified paper supports responsible forestry practices |
Crayola Twistables Colored Pencils (50ct)
Among the Best Art Supplies for Kids, this set offers a mess-free coloring experience with no sharpening needed, ideal for young artists.
The Crayola Twistables Colored Pencils set includes 50 vibrant colors in a convenient twist-up design, eliminating the need for sharpening or peeling. This makes it perfect for kids who want to focus on creativity without interruptions. The plastic barrel protects the color core, reducing breakage and ensuring longevity.
Using these pencils feels hassle-free and consistent, allowing young artists to enjoy drawing and coloring with ease. The twist mechanism is simple for little hands, and the compact design makes it great for travel or on-the-go creativity.
Key Benefits for Young Artists
- Twist-up barrels eliminate sharpening and peeling.
- Protective plastic casing prevents color core breakage.
- Includes 50 vibrant, multicolored pencils for variety.
- Compact and durable, ideal for travel and outdoor use.
- Suitable stocking stuffer gift for kids and teens.
- Safe and easy for children aged 4 and up.
Considerations Before Buying
- Not suitable for those who prefer traditional wooden pencils.
- May feel less natural for sketching detailed art due to plastic barrels.
- Limited to colored pencils only, no other media included.
When This Set Works Best
This colored pencil set is ideal for parents or caregivers looking for a low-maintenance, child-friendly art supply that minimizes mess and frustration. It removes the hassle of sharpening, which can interrupt creativity and frustrate young users.
To get the most out of this set, encourage kids to twist the pencils carefully to avoid overextending the color core. The protective barrel offers peace of mind by reducing breakage, making it a reliable choice for frequent use.
The variety of colors and ease of use make it a practical option for young artists exploring drawing and coloring, whether at home or on the go.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Young children (4+ years) | Easy twist-up design eliminates sharpening hassles for small hands |
| Travel and outdoor art | Compact, durable plastic barrels protect pencils on the go |
| Holiday stocking stuffers | Small, colorful, and practical gift for kids and teens |
| Parents seeking low-maintenance art supplies | No sharpening required, reducing mess and interruptions |
Crayola Construction Paper Pack
This bulk Crayola pack is among the Best Art Supplies for Kids, offering a wide range of colors perfect for classroom and home projects.
This is a bulk pack of sturdy construction paper in 10 vibrant Crayola colors, designed to meet the needs of kids’ school and craft projects. It includes 480 sheets, making it easy to keep ample supplies on hand for various creative activities. The paper is thick yet flexible, helping kids cut, fold, and glue with ease.
Using this pack in real life means less time worrying about running out of paper and more time focused on creativity. The wide color selection encourages exploration, while the durable texture supports multiple crafting techniques without tearing easily. It suits busy classrooms or home setups where reliability matters.
Key Benefits for Young Artists
- Large quantity covers multiple projects or classroom needs.
- Ten bright colors inspire creativity and variety.
- Thick paper holds up well to cutting and gluing.
- Conveniently bound for easy access and storage.
- Trusted Crayola brand known for quality art supplies.
- Perfect size sheets (9×12 inches) for many art activities.
Considerations Before Buying
- Bulk pack may be more than needed for casual or infrequent use.
- Paper weight adds some heft, which might affect shipping or storage.
- Limited to standard 10 colors, no specialty textures or finishes.
When This Works Best
This pack suits parents, teachers, or homeschoolers who want a reliable, colorful paper supply without constant reordering. It removes the hassle of running out mid-project and helps maintain smooth creative sessions. A quick tip: organize sheets by color for faster project prep and less distraction.
Its consistent quality and trusted brand bring peace of mind that kids’ craft projects will have a solid foundation. For anyone valuing simplicity and dependable results, this Crayola pack fits well. It’s a straightforward choice that covers most basic art needs without fuss.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Classroom art activities | Large volume supports many students and projects |
| Homeschool craft time | Wide color variety encourages creative exploration |
| School project supplies | Durable paper holds up to cutting, folding, and gluing |
| Organized art storage | Bound pad keeps sheets neat and accessible |
Crayola Clicks Retractable Markers
This set ranks among the Best Art Supplies for Kids by offering washable, retractable markers that are easy for young hands to use.
The Crayola Clicks Retractable Markers come as a 10-count set of cone tip markers designed for kids aged 3 and up. They solve the common problem of marker caps getting lost by featuring a retractable tip mechanism, making art time smoother and tidier. The washable ink formula means cleanup is simple, which is ideal for parents and teachers.
Using these markers feels effortless and safe, especially for toddlers and young children. The retractable design helps prevent the markers from drying out, so colors stay vibrant longer. This consistency makes coloring and crafting more enjoyable without interruptions or wasted supplies.
Key Benefits for Young Artists
- Retractable tips prevent lost caps and dry-out issues
- Washable, nontoxic ink is safe and easy to clean from skin and clothes
- Includes 10 classic colors suitable for various projects
- Compact size works well for small hands and on-the-go use
- Long-lasting ink supports extended creativity without interruption
- Perfect stocking stuffer and small gift idea for kids and toddlers
Considerations Before Buying
- Only 10 colors included; additional shades require separate purchase
- Markers are best suited for ages 3 and up, not for very young toddlers
- Retractable mechanism may require some dexterity for very young kids
When This Works Well
This marker set is ideal for parents or teachers looking for safe, washable art supplies that reduce mess and lost parts. It removes the hassle of finding marker caps and dealing with dried-out pens, so children can focus on creativity.
For the best experience, encourage kids to fully retract markers after use to maintain ink longevity. The reliable washable formula gives peace of mind about stains on skin or clothing.
In short, these markers offer a practical, user-friendly option for families wanting to keep art time fun and easy.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Young children ages 3 and up | Washable, nontoxic ink and easy retractable design suit little hands |
| Parents seeking low-mess art supplies | Retractable tips and washable ink reduce cleanup and lost caps |
| Holiday or stocking gifts | Compact 10-pack size fits well as a small gift or stocking stuffer |
| Classroom or group art activities | Vibrant colors and reliable ink make coloring projects consistent |
Dan&darci Arts And Crafts Vault
This kit stands out among the Best Art Supplies for Kids by offering a complete, organized set ideal for creative projects and craft activities.
The Dan&Darci Arts and Crafts Vault is a versatile craft supply kit designed for kids ages 4 to 12 to explore art and jewelry making. It includes a wide variety of materials stored neatly in a two-drawer case, making it easy to keep supplies organized. This helps children find everything they need quickly and start crafting without delay.
Using this kit feels engaging and fun as kids can mix and match materials like beads, feathers, and glitter glue to bring their ideas to life. The variety encourages creativity and experimentation, while the organized packaging simplifies cleanup and storage for parents.
Key Features for Creative Kids
- Comprehensive supply assortment supports many craft projects.
- Includes safe tools like scissors and sewing needles appropriate for kids.
- Neatly packaged in a portable two-drawer storage case.
- Materials encourage diverse creations: jewelry, animals, and more.
- Supports imaginative play with endless crafting possibilities.
- Suitable for a broad age range, from 4 to 12 years old.
Considerations Before Buying
- Not specialized for one craft type; more of a general supply kit.
- Some small parts require adult supervision with younger children.
- May be overwhelming for kids who prefer focused, single-project kits.
Who This Kit Suits Best
This kit is ideal for parents seeking a ready-to-use, all-in-one craft set to inspire kids’ creativity across many project types. It removes the hassle of buying individual supplies and helps keep crafting organized. To get the most out of it, encourage kids to explore combining different materials to create unique pieces.
With this kit, you gain peace of mind knowing the supplies are safely stored and versatile enough to grow with your child’s interests. It’s a practical choice for families wanting a dependable, multi-use crafting solution that sparks imagination.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Kids who enjoy varied crafts | Includes diverse materials for different creative projects |
| Parents wanting organized storage | Two-drawer case keeps supplies tidy and accessible |
| Children ages 4 to 12 | Safe tools and materials suited for a wide age range |
| Gift buyers seeking versatile art kits | Comprehensive supplies make it a ready gift for creative kids |
Kousicoo Glitter Outline Markers
These shimmer outline markers stand out as Best Art Supplies for Kids who enjoy creative, colorful crafts with a unique dual-color effect.
The KOUSICOO Glitter Outline Markers are metallic shimmer pens designed for kids to create art with a standout dual-color outline effect. The markers work on various surfaces like paper, wood, and glass, making them versatile for many creative projects. Their self-outline feature helps young artists produce professional-looking results without complex techniques.
Using these markers is straightforward and fun. The quick-drying, non-toxic ink flows smoothly and safely, providing consistent sparkle with every stroke. Kids can confidently explore multiple effects on different surfaces, boosting creativity and minimizing mess or frustration.
Key Advantages for Creative Kids
- Unique double-line outline effect adds artistic flair effortlessly
- Safe, water-based, and non-toxic ink suitable for children
- Works well on light and dark papers, plus various craft materials
- Includes 12 bright, metallic colors for diverse projects
- Medium 2-3mm tip balances detail and coverage
- Quick-drying formula reduces smudging and wait time
- Comes from a highly rated seller with strong customer feedback
Considerations Before Buying
- Best results on paper over 80gsm; thinner paper may affect outlines
- Markers need shaking and priming before use for optimal ink flow
- Not intended for children under 3 without adult supervision
Where This Stands Out
This set is ideal for kids aged 6-12 who want a fun and easy way to add sparkle and unique outlines to their art projects. It removes the guesswork of creating dual-color effects, making craft time more enjoyable and less stressful for parents and kids alike. One helpful tip is to store the markers horizontally and recap quickly after use to keep the ink fresh and flowing smoothly.
The peace of mind comes from using a product that meets safety certifications and has a smooth, odorless ink formula. For any tween or teen who loves personalized crafts or card making, these markers bring a cool, creative touch without hassle. They make a thoughtful gift for various holidays or birthdays, encouraging artistic expression with minimal mess.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Kids aged 6-12 | Safe and easy to use with fun metallic shimmer effects |
| Crafting on multiple surfaces | Works on paper, wood, glass, fabric, and more |
| Holiday and greeting cards | Creates standout dual-color outlines for special messages |
| Creative gift projects | Includes bright colors and smooth flow for unique art |
How To Choose The Right Art Supplies For Kids
Consider the Child’s Age and Skill Level
Different products suit different ages and abilities. Younger children benefit from washable markers and crayons that are easy to handle and safe. Older kids and teens may prefer colored pencils, sketchbooks, or specialty markers for more detailed work.
Think About the Intended Use
Decide whether the art supplies will be used for casual coloring, school projects, or more advanced drawing and crafting. For example, bulk construction paper is ideal for classroom crafts, while quality sketchbooks suit serious sketching and painting.
Portability and Storage
If the child needs supplies on the go, consider sets with carrying cases or compact design. Products like the Crayola Create ‘N Carry Art Set provide easy storage and transport, making creative work possible anywhere.
Safety and Material Quality
Choose non-toxic, washable, and durable products to ensure safety and longevity. Look for certifications and materials that are environmentally friendly, especially for younger children.
Common Buyer Concerns And How To Address Them
Are the Supplies Safe for Young Children?
Many products include non-toxic, washable inks and materials certified for safety. Always supervise very young children and check product age recommendations.
Will the Supplies Last Long Enough?
Look for products with sturdy components and protective features, like twistable pencils or retractable markers, to reduce breakage and extend use.
Are the Colors Vibrant and Diverse?
Sets with a wide range of colors, such as rainbow pencils or multi-colored construction paper, offer more creative options and variety for different projects.
Is It Easy to Clean Up After Use?
Washable markers and gel pens simplify cleanup. Avoid permanent inks or paints unless used under controlled conditions.
Tips For Using And Caring For Kids’ Art Supplies
Storage and Organization
Keep supplies in designated cases or containers to prevent loss and damage. Portable sets with compartments help maintain order and readiness.
Proper Usage
Teach children to use supplies gently, such as twisting colored pencils properly or capping markers immediately after use to prevent drying out.
Cleaning Up
Use mild soap and water for washable products. For paper, store in a dry place to prevent warping or tearing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of art supplies are best for beginners?
Washable markers, crayons, and simple colored pencils are excellent for beginners due to ease of use and safety.
How can I encourage kids to keep their art supplies organized?
Provide storage solutions like cases or drawers and encourage putting items back after use to build good habits.
Are sketchbooks suitable for all types of art mediums?
Most sketchbooks work well with dry media like pencils and crayons. For wet media, check if the paper is thick and acid-free to prevent damage.
Can colored masking tape be used for crafts other than sticking?
Yes, it can be used for decorating, labeling, and creating patterns, adding vibrant colors to various projects.
What should I consider when buying art supplies as gifts?
Consider the recipient’s age, interests, and skill level. Gift sets with variety and portability often make thoughtful presents.
Final Thoughts On Selecting Kids’ Art Supplies
Choosing the right art supplies depends largely on the child’s age, interests, and how they like to create. Prioritizing safety, ease of use, and versatility will help ensure the supplies are enjoyed and used effectively. Whether for casual coloring or serious crafting, thoughtful selection supports creativity and skill development in a meaningful way.
