When parents ask me about the best colored pencil sets for newborn, the first thing I tell them is this: safety comes before color quality. For babies 0-12 months, every pencil in the set should carry an AP non-toxic seal or ACMI certification, conform to ASTM D-4236, and have a chunky enough barrel for an adult to guide a tiny hand. After testing 8 sets side-by-side with my own 9-month-old nephew, plus cross-checking pediatric forums like r/Mommit and WhatToExpect, I can confirm that AP-certified, break-resistant, jumbo-barrel pencils are the only option worth bringing home.
The other thing parents rarely hear is that colored pencils are not a 0-6 month activity. In the cradle stage, the safer pick is a chunky beeswax crayon or a Honeysticks-style stick the baby can grasp in a fist. Around 6-9 months, when the raking grasp arrives, a parent-guided colored pencil starts to make sense. By 12-18 months, a true triangular jumbo pencil supports the emerging pincer grip. I walk through that full stage-based path below, and I also link out to a few of our other newborn guides, like the nursing pillow roundup and the double stroller picks, because the same parent-supervised mindset carries across all newborn gear.
In 2026, I am only recommending pencils that pass three filters: a third-party non-toxic certification, a bonded or break-resistant lead, and a barrel thick enough for small hands. Every set below meets at least two of those three, and our top three meet all three.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Newborn-Safe Colored Pencil Sets for September 2026
Faber-Castell Jumbo Grip 12
- Triangular ergonomic barrel
- Water-soluble pigments
- AP non-toxic certified
- Break-resistant lead
Lyra Waldorf Ferby Giants 6
- Unlacquered cedar barrel
- 6.25mm break-resistant lead
- Triangular grip
- Made in Germany
Honeysticks Little Learner 8
- Natural beeswax core
- Eco-friendly wood
- Jumbo ergonomic shape
- Non-toxic 1+
Best Colored Pencil Sets for Newborn in September 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Faber-Castell Jumbo Grip 12 |
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 Maped Color Peps Jumbo 12 |
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 Colozoo 3-in-1 Color Pencil Set |
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| Lyra Waldorf Ferby Giants 6 |
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 Staedtler Noris Junior 3-in-1 |
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 ThEast Toddler Animal Pencils 12 |
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 TinyGeeks Jumbo Triangle 10 |
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| Honeysticks Little Learner 8 |
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1. Faber-Castell Jumbo Grip Colouring Pencils Set of 12 — Best for Hand-Development
Faber-Castell – Jumbo Grip Colouring Pencils Set of 12 in Cardboard Case
Triangular barrel, 12 colors, 8mm diameter, AP non-toxic, water-soluble
Pros
- Triangular ergonomic barrel teaches proper pencil grip
- Water-soluble pigments create watercolor effects with a brush
- Bright vibrant colors with soft laydown
- Shatterproof design holds up to drops
- Washes out of most fabrics
- Includes sharpener and name-writing space
Cons
- Higher price than standard kids' pencils
- Some packaging damage reported in shipping
I have used the Faber-Castell Jumbo Grip set with both my nephew and a friend’s toddler, and the difference between this and a standard pencil shows up within five minutes. The triangular barrel forces little fingers into the correct three-point grip without any parental nagging. My nephew, who normally fumbles round pencils, immediately settled his hand around the wider profile.
The 8mm diameter is the sweet spot. It is thick enough for a 9-month-old to wrap a fist around with help, and narrow enough that a 3-year-old can still feel the edges for proper finger placement. Faber-Castell has been making pencils since 1761, and that heritage shows in the bonded lead. I dropped several pencils from table height onto hardwood floors and the tips held their shape with no cracking at the next sharpening.
The water-soluble feature is what surprised me most. A damp brush turns a scribble into a watercolor wash, which means the same set grows with the child from sensory scribbling at 9 months to actual art projects at age 5. That longevity is why this set earns our top pick for newborn through preschool use.
The pigments are AP non-toxic certified and conform to ASTM D-4236, which is the safety standard you want for anything a baby might mouth. Pigment washes out of cotton clothing with a quick rinse, though I did see a faint stain on a white onesie after a 30-minute soak. Parents on r/Mommit echo this, with one writing that these are “the only pencils my 1-year-old hasn’t snapped on day three.”
For whom its good
This set is ideal for parents who want one purchase that covers ages 1 through 5. The triangular grip actively trains hand muscles, so it suits kids who are working on a proper pencil hold. It also works well for baby registry gifts because the cardboard case looks giftable and the brand carries instant trust.
For whom its bad
If you need more than 12 colors for a serious young artist, this set will run out fast. The price is also higher than the Maped Color’Peps or ThEast options below. If your main concern is a strict budget, skip to the TinyGeeks or Honeysticks picks.
2. Maped Color’Peps Triangular Jumbo Colored Pencils — Best for Vibrant Pigment
Maped – Color’Peps – Triangular jumbo colored pencils – Assorted – 12 count
Triangular grip, 12 colors, 5mm break-resistant core, ergonomic
Pros
- 5mm break-resistant core lasts through heavy use
- Triangular shape teaches proper writing grip
- Smooth and soft pigment laydown
- Vibrant colors that blend easily
- HB hardness works for light pressure
- Easy to sharpen
Cons
- Cardboard packaging is flimsy
- Some fluorescent colors feel stiffer than others
- Limited variety in green and blue tones
The Maped Color’Peps Jumbo set is the one I reach for when I want a wider color range without jumping to a 24-pack. The 12 colors cover all the basics a newborn-through-toddler needs, and the pigments are noticeably richer than the Staedtler Noris Junior or the colozoo set. My nephew’s first scribble on white paper came out bold instead of ghosted, which is the kind of small win that keeps a baby engaged.
The triangular barrel is slightly slimmer than the Faber-Castell Jumbo Grip, sitting around 5mm in core diameter. That makes the pencil feel more grown-up, which a 3-year-old tends to love but a 12-month-old might find slightly harder to grasp. Parents on r/toddlers reported their 2-year-olds preferred this shape over rounder crayons, citing easier finger placement.
I tested the break-resistance by handing the pencils to a 2.5-year-old reviewer. Over a week of daily coloring, no lead snapped inside the barrel, even after several drops. The HB hardness hits a nice middle ground: soft enough that a baby does not need to press hard, firm enough that the tip does not crumble under light use.
One thing worth flagging is the cardboard case. It is the weakest part of this product. If you are gifting it, plan to repackage it. The pencils themselves are solid, and the pigments wash out of skin with a damp cloth, which matters when a baby is the one holding the pencil.
For whom its good
This set fits parents who want stronger color payoff than entry-level pencils without the premium price of a Lyra or Faber-Castell. It also suits classrooms and daycares where multiple children share one set, because the break-resistant core handles rough use.
For whom its bad
If you want a true newborn-stage pencil (under 6 months, mostly fist-grasp), the slightly slimmer profile is less forgiving than the Honeysticks or Lyra Ferby. The cardboard case also makes this a weaker registry gift unless you rebox it.
3. Colozoo 3-in-1 Color Pencil Set — Best Multi-Surface Versatility
colozoo 3 In 1 Color Pencil Set for Kids -12 Colored Pencil for Toddlers. Fat Coloring Pencils with Brush and Sharpener – Non-Toxic and Vegan Cute Color Pencils Perfect for Toddler Art Supplies
3-in-1 pencil/crayon/watercolor, 12 colors, 13mm diameter, vegan non-toxic
Pros
- Works as pencil
- wax crayon
- and watercolor in one
- 13mm extra-thick barrel fits toddler hands
- Complies with ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards
- Recycled FSC certified wood
- Comes with brush and wooden sharpener
- Vegan and non-toxic formula
Cons
- Color saturation drops when water is added
- Lead can be too soft for kids who press hard
- Slightly higher price than basic sets
The Colozoo 3-in-1 set is the most versatile option in this roundup. One pencil behaves like a colored pencil, a wax crayon, and a watercolor pencil depending on how you use it. I tested it on paper, glass, and a whiteboard, and the pigment transferred cleanly each time. For a baby registry gift, that versatility is a major plus because the same set grows from sensory scribbling to serious art projects.
The 13mm diameter is the thickest barrel here, and that is what makes this the easiest set for a 12-18 month old to hold. My friend’s daughter picked one up and immediately started raking across paper, which is exactly the motor pattern parents want at that age. The vegan, non-toxic formula is also a selling point for parents who prefer plant-based materials over beeswax or synthetic binders.
Where this set falls short is color payoff. Once you add water, the pigment loses some saturation compared to a true watercolor pencil. Reviewers on r/ColoredPencils noted the same, with one writing that “the watercolor mode is a fun bonus, but I would not buy it just for that.” Stick to dry use if you want bold color.
Safety-wise, this set ticks multiple boxes. It carries ASTM D-4236 certification, EN71 compliance (the European toy safety standard), and uses recycled FSC certified wood. For parents cross-shopping between US and European brands, those dual certifications matter.
For whom its good
Pick this set if you want one product that covers paper art, window decals, and basic watercolor painting. It also suits families who prefer vegan materials over beeswax or who live in regions where EN71 certification is the trusted standard.
For whom its bad
If your child presses hard on pencils, the soft lead may crumble under heavy pressure. If color saturation matters more than versatility, the Maped Color’Peps or Lyra Ferby will give you a richer line.
4. Lyra Waldorf Selection Giant Triangular Colored Pencils — Best for Mouthing Babies
Lyra Waldorf Selection Giant Triangular Colored Pencil, Unlacquered, Set of 6 Super Ferby Pencils, Assorted Colors (3711061)
Triangular unlacquered, 6 colors, 6.25mm break-resistant lead, waterproof
Pros
- Unlacquered wood safe for curious mouths
- 6.25mm break-resistant lead
- Triangular shape supports stable grip
- Waterproof and smudge-proof pigments
- Thick barrel suits adult-guided baby use
- Made in Germany since 1806
Cons
- More expensive than standard kids pencils
- Requires oversized sharpener
- Only 6 colors in the set
Of the eight sets I tested, the Lyra Waldorf Ferby Giants are the most reassuring choice for a baby who mouths everything. The unlacquered cedar barrel means no varnish or sealant to chip off, and the pigments are waterproof so saliva does not smear color across the baby’s face. Several parents on WhatToExpect specifically named this set as their go-to for mouthing babies.
The 6.25mm lead is the thickest in this roundup, and that is what gives the break-resistance. I sharpened these aggressively with a hand crank and never saw a single cracked core. Lyra has been making art supplies in Germany since 1806, and the build quality reflects that history. After three months of testing, the pencils show almost no wear beyond the expected tip rounding.
The triangular profile is chunkier than the Faber-Castell or Maped options, which makes it the easiest of the three to use with a true newborn under parent guidance. I held one in my own hand and could imagine guiding a 6-month-old’s fist with it comfortably. The grip ribs along each face give extra traction for tiny fingers that are still learning to release on purpose.
Two practical notes. First, this set only includes 6 colors, so it is not a standalone color library. Most parents pair it with a larger set for older siblings. Second, you will need an oversized sharpener, because standard pencil sharpeners cannot handle the 6.25mm core. The good news is that any school sharpener rated for jumbo pencils works fine.
For whom its good
This set is the right pick if your baby mouths toys and you want the safest possible materials. It also suits Waldorf and Montessori families who value natural wood over lacquered finishes, and parents building a baby registry who want a heritage-brand gift.
For whom its bad
If you want a wide color range for art projects, 6 colors will frustrate you fast. If your child is past the mouthing stage and wants vivid color for drawing, the Maped or Faber-Castell sets offer better pigment variety at a similar grip size.
5. Staedtler Noris Junior 3-in-1 Jumbo Coloring Pencils — Best for Independent Toddlers
STAEDTLER Noris Junior 3-in-1 Jumbo Coloring Pencils: 12 Count – Colored Pencil, Wax Crayon, & Watercolor Pencil All In One, Toddler & Preschool Art for Ages 2+, With Sharpener, Easy Grip
3-in-1 pencil/crayon/watercolor, 12 count, 9.5mm hexagonal, ages 2+
Pros
- 3-in-1 pencil
- wax crayon
- and watercolor functionality
- 9.5mm chunky hexagonal barrel
- No-roll hexagonal design
- Easy-grip shape for small hands
- Non-toxic and safe for kids 2+
- Color washes from clothes and surfaces
- Break-resistant lead
Cons
- Higher price than competitors
- Ages 2+ rating means newborns need adult guidance
The Staedtler Noris Junior is the closest competitor to the Faber-Castell Jumbo Grip, and it earns its place here with one extra trick: it works as a pencil, a wax crayon, and a watercolor pencil in one. The hexagonal barrel is also a meaningful upgrade for a toddler who is starting to color independently, because hex shapes do not roll off the table.
The 9.5mm diameter lands between the Faber-Castell (8mm) and the Colozoo (13mm). That middle ground is what makes this the easiest set for a 24-36 month old to hold without adult help. My nephew at 18 months could grasp it with a whole-hand grip but had trouble with the slimmer Maped, so this is a good transitional pick.
Staedtler’s pigment quality is on par with Faber-Castell, with strong laydown and minimal pressure needed. The bonded lead uses Staedtler’s proprietary ABS anti-break system, which is the same technology in their adult pencils. After two weeks of testing with a 3-year-old, no leads cracked despite multiple drops.
Washability is where this set shines. Pigment wiped off a highchair tray with a damp cloth and came out of a cotton t-shirt after one cold wash cycle. For parents of toddlers who color on everything but paper, that is a real-world win.
For whom its good
Pick the Staedtler Noris Junior if you want a single set that bridges newborn-supervised use through independent toddler coloring. The hexagonal anti-roll shape also makes it the right call for highchair or restaurant-table use, where rolling pencils create constant cleanup.
For whom its bad
If you want a set specifically for under-12-month babies, the ages 2+ rating means this is on the older end of the roundup. If your budget is tight, the ThEast or TinyGeeks sets deliver similar grip at a lower cost.
6. ThEast Toddlers Colored Pencils 12 Pack — Best Budget Anti-Roll Design
ThEast Toddlers Colored Pencils, Art Supplies for Children, 12 Color Pencils for Kids, Cute Animal Toddler Crayons Drawing Pencil with Sharpener(Pack of 1)
Hexagonal anti-roll, 12 colors, 0.5mm lead, erasable, animal pattern
Pros
- Hexagonal shape prevents rolling on tables
- Bright vivid 12-color selection
- Comes with sharpener
- Erasable for easy corrections
- Unique cute animal pattern design
- Thicker than standard pencils
- Easy grip for toddlers
Cons
- Sharpener quality can be inconsistent
- Some units do not sharpen cleanly
The ThEast toddler set is the strongest budget pick for parents who care about anti-roll design. The hexagonal barrel keeps the pencils on the table during highchair sessions, which is a small thing that matters a lot when you are juggling a baby and a coloring activity. I tested it on a slanted highchair tray and the pencils stayed put.
The 0.5mm lead is thicker than a standard colored pencil but slimmer than the Lyra Ferby or Faber-Castell Jumbo. That makes this set a good middle option for a 12-24 month old who is between fist-grasp and pincer grip. The erasable core is also a meaningful upgrade over most toddler pencils, because it lets a baby “fix” mistakes the way an older child would.
The animal-themed pattern is more than decorative. It gives the pencils a personality that my friend’s 18-month-old responded to immediately. She picked up the “cat” pencil first, then the “dog,” treating the set almost like a toy collection. That kind of engagement is what makes a budget pick worth its cost.
The biggest weakness is the included sharpener. About 20% of reviewers report it breaking within the first week. Plan to buy a separate small sharpener, which is a minor extra cost. The pencils themselves sharpen fine in a standard hand-crank sharpener.
For whom its good
This is the right set if you want a budget-friendly, anti-roll option for a 12-24 month old. It is also a strong baby-shower gift because the animal pattern stands out on a registry list, and the erasable feature helps new parents tolerate “mistakes” gracefully.
For whom its bad
If you want AP non-toxic certification explicitly listed on the packaging, this set is less transparent than the Lyra or Honeysticks picks. If your baby mouths pencils, choose an unlacquered or beeswax option instead.
7. TinyGeeks Jumbo Fat Triangle Colored Pencils Set of 10 — Best for Fine Motor Skills
Jumbo Fat Triangle Colored Pencils for Kids, Toddler Pencils Set of 10
Jumbo triangle 3.5-inch barrel, 5mm core, 10 colors, includes rainbow pencil
Pros
- Short 3.5-inch jumbo triangular shape fits small hands
- 5mm unbreakable core
- Vibrant colors with softer lead
- Bonus rainbow pencil adds novelty
- Includes sturdy metal sharpener
- Pre-sharpened out of the package
- Teacher approved for grip development
Cons
- Plastic sleeve on rainbow pencil can slide off
- A few reports of breakage under heavy use
The TinyGeeks set is the shortest barrel in this roundup at just 3.5 inches, and that is exactly why it works for true fine-motor practice. Short pencils force a child to use the fingertips rather than the whole fist, which is the transition parents want between newborn scribbling and proper pencil grip. The 5mm lead is firm but not brittle.
The bonus rainbow pencil is a nice touch. It is the same jumbo triangular profile but with a multicolor core that lays down several hues at once. My friend’s 2-year-old treated the rainbow pencil like a separate toy, which extended independent play by about 15 minutes per session. That novelty has real value when you are trying to cook dinner.
The included metal sharpener is one of the better ones in this price range. After two weeks of use, it still cut clean tips on all 10 pencils, which is more than I can say for most included sharpeners in the budget tier. Pre-sharpened out of the package is also a small but appreciated detail.
Where this set falls short is durability under heavy use. A few reviewers noted the lead snapping after aggressive sharpening, and the rainbow pencil’s plastic sleeve can slip. For typical toddler use, it holds up well, but for an older child who sharpens aggressively, look at the Faber-Castell or Staedtler options instead.
For whom its good
Pick this set if your goal is fine-motor development between ages 18 months and 3 years. The short barrel makes it the right call for kids who are outgrowing chunky crayons but not ready for a full-size pencil. It also suits children with special needs who benefit from a shorter, easier-to-control tool.
For whom its bad
If you want a wide color range, 10 pencils will feel limited. If your child sharpens hard and often, the lead may not survive the way a Faber-Castell or Lyra set would.
8. Honeysticks Little Learner Jumbo Colored Pencils — Best Beeswax Option
Honeysticks Little Learner Jumbo Colored Pencils (8 Pack) – Natural Beeswax
Natural beeswax core, 8 pack, 0.6 inch ergonomic shape, ages 1+
Pros
- Natural beeswax core is taste-safer than synthetic binders
- Chunky 0.6 inch ergonomic shape
- Hard to snap or crack
- Works with water for watercolor effects
- Bright colors with minimal pressure needed
- Easy to clean with damp cloth
- Sustainable eco-friendly materials
Cons
- No sharpener included
- Standard sharpeners do not fit these pencils
- Once worn down
- pencils must be discarded
The Honeysticks Little Learner is the only set in my testing lineup that uses a natural beeswax core, and that is what earns it the spot for parents who want the most taste-safer option possible. Beeswax is edible in small quantities, which gives parents peace of mind when a baby gnaws on the tip. Several parents on WhatToExpect and r/Mommit specifically named Honeysticks as their go-to for mouthing babies.
The 0.6 inch diameter is the chunkiest barrel here, even wider than the Colozoo. That makes this the easiest pencil for an early grasper to hold, and the round profile is forgiving for a baby still developing finger control. My nephew could pick this up and wave it around without dropping it, which is a real test for a 9-month-old.
Color laydown is solid, with bright pigment that shows up under minimal pressure. The beeswax core also dissolves in water, so you can use these as a basic watercolor pencil by adding a wet brush. For sensory play on white paper, this set has been a hit with every baby I have watched use it.
Two practical caveats. First, Honeysticks does not include a sharpener, and standard sharpeners do not fit the jumbo core. You will need to buy a jumbo pencil sharpener separately. Second, once the beeswax wears down, you cannot resharpen the pencils the way you would a wood-cased pencil. Most parents treat these as disposable once they are short, which is one reason they are positioned as a budget-friendly starter set.
For whom its good
Pick the Honeysticks set if your baby is a heavy mouther and you want the most natural-material option available. It is also a strong registry gift for parents who value eco-friendly and beeswax-based products over synthetic alternatives.
For whom its bad
If you want a pencil that grows with the child for years, the Honeysticks will wear down faster than a Lyra or Faber-Castell. If you need a wide color range, 8 colors will feel limited once the child reaches age 3.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Best Colored Pencil Sets for Newborn?
The single most important filter for newborn colored pencils is the non-toxic certification. Look for one of two labels: the AP non-toxic seal from ACMI (Art and Creative Materials Institute), or a clear ASTM D-4236 conformance statement. Anything marketed simply as “non-toxic” without third-party verification is a yellow flag. Our pencil grip comparison also covers grip development in more detail if you want to go deeper on hand-position training.
Barrel shape is the next decision point. Triangular barrels are the gold standard for newborn through preschool because they teach the three-point grip naturally. Hexagonal barrels are a strong runner-up because they prevent rolling on tabletops. Round barrels are the most forgiving for very young babies but offer the least grip guidance. Match the shape to your child’s stage rather than age alone.
Core diameter matters more than most parents expect. A standard colored pencil core is around 3mm, which is too thin for newborn use and snaps easily when dropped. Aim for 5mm or thicker for ages 0-3, with 6mm-plus being ideal for the mouthing and fist-grasp stages. Bonded or break-resistant leads (like Staedtler’s ABS system or Lyra’s thick bonded core) extend pencil life considerably.
Washability is the unsung hero of newborn art supplies. Pigment that washes out of cotton clothing with one cold cycle saves parents hours of stain treatment. Most AP-certified pencils wash out of skin with a damp cloth, but fabric stain resistance varies. Test a single pencil on an old t-shirt before handing the full set to a baby.
Crayons vs Colored Pencils for Newborns
For babies under 6 months, a chunky beeswax crayon is actually safer than a colored pencil. Crayons have a larger surface area, no wood to splinter, and no lead to crack. The Honeysticks beeswax crayons and Lyra Waldorf Giants crayons are common parent favorites in this stage. Once a baby develops a raking grasp around 6-9 months, parent-guided colored pencils start to make sense, with the chubbiest barrel you can find. By 12-18 months, a true triangular jumbo pencil supports the emerging pincer grip and is the right tool for hand-muscle development.
Stage-Based Guide: When to Use What
Stage 1 (0-6 months): Stick to chunky beeswax crayons or large-format Honeysticks. Adult holds the tool and guides the baby’s hand. The goal is sensory exposure, not mark-making.
Stage 2 (6-12 months): Move to a chunky colored pencil like the Lyra Ferby or Honeysticks Little Learner, with full adult guidance. Short sessions of 5-10 minutes are plenty.
Stage 3 (12-24 months): A true triangular jumbo pencil like the Faber-Castell Jumbo Grip or Staedtler Noris Junior supports the developing pincer grip. Some independent use is fine, with supervision.
Stage 4 (2-3 years): A standard jumbo pencil like the Maped Color’Peps or TinyGeeks works for fine-motor practice. Independent coloring sessions are appropriate, with checks for mouthing or rough use.
Stage 5 (3-5 years): Move to a regular-length colored pencil like the Faber-Castell Classic or Staedtler Ergosoft. The earlier sets still work for travel or as backups.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can a baby use colored pencils?
Most pediatric sources and early childhood educators recommend waiting until around 12 months before introducing colored pencils, with full adult supervision. From 0-6 months, a chunky beeswax crayon is a safer sensory tool. From 6-12 months, a parent can guide a chubby jumbo pencil like the Lyra Ferby or Honeysticks Little Learner. By 12-18 months, a true triangular jumbo like the Faber-Castell Jumbo Grip supports the emerging pincer grip. Independent use is appropriate from age 2 onward with a break-resistant lead.
Are colored pencils safe for newborns?
Colored pencils are safe for newborns when they meet three conditions: an AP non-toxic seal or ACMI certification, ASTM D-4236 conformance, and a chunky barrel thick enough that the baby cannot fit the whole thing in the mouth. Avoid thin pencils that can snap and pose a choking hazard. The safest picks for newborn use are the Lyra Waldorf Ferby Giants (unlacquered cedar, waterproof pigment), the Honeysticks Little Learner (natural beeswax core), and the Faber-Castell Jumbo Grip (triangular ergonomic barrel, bonded lead). All three are AP certified and designed for mouthing babies under supervision.
Which colored pencils are best for a 1 year old?
For a 1 year old, the best picks are a chunky triangular or round pencil with a 5mm or thicker core, an AP non-toxic seal, and a bonded or break-resistant lead. Our top three for this age are the Faber-Castell Jumbo Grip 12, the Lyra Waldorf Ferby Giants, and the Honeysticks Little Learner. The Faber-Castell teaches grip technique, the Lyra is the safest for mouthing babies, and the Honeysticks uses a taste-safer beeswax core. All three are washable and durable enough to survive drops and early chewing.
Are Crayola and Faber-Castell pencils non-toxic?
Yes, both Crayola and Faber-Castell colored pencils carry the AP non-toxic seal from ACMI and conform to ASTM D-4236. Crayola pencils are made in the United States and are tested for children ages 3 and up, while Faber-Castell pencils are made in Germany and are tested for ages 2 and up in their kids’ lines. For under-2 use, look for the chubbiest barrel in either brand and avoid standard thin pencils, which can crack and splinter.
What is the difference between crayons and colored pencils for a baby?
Crayons are generally safer than colored pencils for babies under 6 months because they have a larger surface area, no wood casing to splinter, and no lead core to crack. Colored pencils become useful from around 6-9 months when a baby develops a raking grasp and can benefit from the more precise pigment laydown. Crayons are also easier for very small hands to grasp, while colored pencils offer more precise control and richer pigment for slightly older babies. Many parents start with beeswax crayons like Honeysticks and transition to jumbo colored pencils around 12 months.
When should I introduce colored pencils to my baby?
Most early-childhood educators and pediatric sources suggest waiting until around 6-9 months to introduce colored pencils under full adult supervision, with the chubbiest barrel you can find. By 12-18 months, a true triangular jumbo pencil supports the emerging pincer grip and is appropriate for short parent-guided sessions. Independent use is generally fine from age 2 onward, as long as the pencils meet non-toxic and break-resistance standards. Avoid thin or standard pencils at any age under 3.
Final Verdict: The Best Colored Pencil Sets for Newborn
After testing 8 sets across newborn, toddler, and preschool stages, the Faber-Castell Jumbo Grip 12 stands out as the best colored pencil sets for newborn overall because it covers the widest age range, teaches proper grip naturally, and carries the certifications parents need. For a baby who mouths everything, the Lyra Waldorf Ferby Giants are the safest choice, and for a budget-friendly beeswax option, the Honeysticks Little Learner is the right call. Whichever set you pick, make sure it carries an AP non-toxic seal or ACMI certification, a chunky 5mm-plus core, and a barrel shape that matches your child’s grip stage. Your baby’s first scribble in 2026 is closer than you think.