Are these really better than the cheap store-brand stuff?

Yes, and you'll notice it immediately. The 'laydown' of color is smoother, the leads don't break every time you sharpen them, and the pigments are much more concentrated. It's the difference between drawing with a candle and drawing with a professional tool.

What's the deal with the 'Grip' dots?

They aren't just for show. Those raised dots provide a non-slip surface that helps kids (and adults) maintain a comfortable grip without squeezing too hard. It’s great for kids who are still developing their hand strength.

Are the watercolors messy?

The watercolor pencils are actually the 'clean' version of painting. You draw like a normal pencil, then use a damp brush to turn the lines into paint. It's much more controlled than a standard tray of wet paints.

Can I wash these out of clothes?

Most of the kids' line is formulated to be washable from most fabrics. However, because the pigments are higher quality (more intense) than budget brands, you'll want to treat stains sooner rather than later.

Faber-Castell Kids – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Faber-Castell Kids

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Product

97%

WISE Score

High-octane art supplies that actually work, won't snap in five minutes, and might make you want to steal your kid's colored pencils.

Faber-Castell Kids

Product

97%

WISE Score

High-octane art supplies that actually work, won't snap in five minutes, and might make you want to steal your kid's colored pencils.

Jump to

Screenwise Verdict

Faber-Castell is the 'buy once, cry once' of the art world. If you’re tired of waxy, pale crayons that snap under the slightest pressure, this is the upgrade you're looking for.

It’s a deliberate choice to move away from the disposable nature of modern toys. These are tools, not just toys, and they treat the kid’s creative output with respect by providing high-quality materials. It’s an easy win for any household looking to prioritize tactile, screen-free engagement.

Age Fit

The chunky 'Grip' line starts at age 3, but because the quality is so high, these stay relevant through middle school and into adulthood. There is no 'aging out' of good art supplies.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Art supplies are the gold standard for wholesome play. There are no hidden agendas or manipulative loops—just pigment, paper, and a kid’s imagination.

Imaginative

100

This is pure creative fuel. Whether it's gel crayons or watercolor pencils, these tools are designed specifically to let kids experiment with texture and color mixing.

Safe

Reputable German engineering with strict non-toxic standards. The 'Grip' line is physically designed for smaller hands to prevent frustration and physical strain.

Enriching

Beyond just 'fun,' these products focus on fine motor development and sensory exploration. The quality of the pigment means kids actually see the results of their effort, which builds confidence.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Superior pigment quality means colors are vibrant and blendable, not waxy and pale like the cheap stuff.
The 'Grip' technology (those little dots) actually helps with proper pencil grasp and prevents hand fatigue.
Extremely durable; these pencils and crayons are designed to survive the 'heavy-handed' phase of childhood.
The watercolor pencils are a magic trick for kids—draw first, add water, and watch their minds blow.

⚠

What to Watch For

The price point is higher than generic brands, which is a bummer if your kid tends to lose things or leave caps off markers.
Some of the specialized 'Creativity for Kids' kits are one-and-done activities rather than open-ended tools.

Conversation Starters

"What happens to the color when you add a little bit of water to that pencil line?"
"Why do you think those little dots on the side make it easier to hold?"
"If you could invent a brand new color name for that specific shade of blue, what would it be?"
"Which of these tools feels the 'smoothest' when you move it across the paper?"

What Parents Ask

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic