When my child started school, I was surprised at how much difference the right stationery made to their learning and confidence. From colouring pencils that don’t snap too easily to pens designed for little hands, the right tools can really encourage creativity and make homework time less of a struggle.
In this guide, I’ve rounded up the best stationery for kids, including stationery sets, colouring tools, and writing essentials tested by real parents. You’ll find quick picks, detailed reviews, and a buyer’s guide to help you choose the best options for your child’s age and needs.
According to the NHS Better Health campaign, creative activities like drawing and writing support children’s fine motor skills and boost wellbeing (NHS Children’s Health). That makes having the right stationery more than just a back to school purchase; it’s an investment in learning and play.
Whether your child is starting reception, preparing for SATs, or simply loves to doodle, I’ve compared the best products for quality, durability, and value.
Comparison Table Top Picks
| Product | Key Features | Price Range | Why I Recommend It |
| Crayola Twistable Crayons | Twist up crayons, no sharpening | £6-£10 | Mess free and perfect for young kids |
| Four Candies 39 PCS Aesthetic School Supplies Set | Complete stationery set, fun designs | £18-£25 | Great starter kit with everything in one |
| Staedtler Noris Colouring Pencils | Break resistant, classic school choice | £7-£12 | Reliable and long lasting, used in many UK schools |
| Stabilo EASYoriginal Rollerball Pens | Ergonomic grip, refillable | £7-£10 | Best for handwriting practice |
| Helix Oxford Maths Set | Protractor, compass, ruler, etc. | £5-£8 | Affordable and essential for older kids |
| Sharpie Colour Burst Marker Pens | Bright colours, long lasting ink | £10-£15 | Best for creative kids who love bold designs |
| BIC Kids Evolution Ecolutions Pencils | Eco friendly, easy grip, durable | £5-£8 | Great for everyday schoolwork |
| Smiggle Scented Gel Pens | Vibrant, scented gel pens in a variety of colors and finishes. | £15–£20 | Ideal for creative projects and stationery enthusiasts. |
How I Picked These Stationery Buys
When choosing the best stationery for kids, I focused on:
- Safety & quality: Non toxic materials and sturdy builds.
- Ease of use: Kid friendly design like ergonomic grips and break resistant leads.
- Durability: Tools that can handle a school bag without breaking.
- Value: Affordable, but good enough to last through term time.
- Parent tested perspective: Products recommended by teachers, parents, and my own family.
Parent Tip: Always label your child’s stationery. It saves tears when something inevitably goes missing at school.
Best Stationery Buys Reviews
Crayola Twistable Crayons
No more snapped crayons or lost sharpeners. These twistable crayons are brilliant for little hands. Kids can colour smoothly, and parents love how mess free they are.
Pros:
- No sharpening needed
- Bright, smooth colours
- Durable plastic casing
Cons:
- Can run out quicker than pencils
- Not ideal for very detailed work
Best for: Younger children and beginner artists.
Personal insight: This one stood out because my toddler could use them independently without constant sharpening.
Four Candies 39 PCS Aesthetic School Supplies Set
This fun all in one set includes pens, pencils, sticky notes, erasers, and more in colourful, aesthetic designs.
Pros:
- Complete starter kit
- Fun, trendy styles kids love
- Good value for number of items
Cons:
- Some items less durable than standalone brands
- Can be bulky for small bags
Best for: Kids starting school or wanting a full matching set.
Personal insight: My child was thrilled to open this; it felt like a gift set and had everything they needed.
Staedtler Noris Colouring Pencils
The iconic yellow and black striped pencils, used in many UK schools. They’re reliable, easy to sharpen, and strong against breakage.
Pros:
- Strong, break resistant lead
- Smooth colouring
- Trusted school brand
Cons:
- Colours slightly softer than premium sets
- Pack sizes vary
Best for: School aged children who colour often.
Personal insight: I grew up using these, and they’re still the pencils most schools recommend today.
Stabilo EASYoriginal Rollerball Pens
Specifically designed for children learning handwriting, with ergonomic grips for left and right handers.
Pros:
- Comfortable grip reduces hand strain
- Refillable (eco friendly)
- Smooth writing ink
Cons:
- Refills need to be purchased separately
- A bit pricier than standard pens
Best for: Children practising handwriting.
Personal insight: This one stood out because my child’s writing improved once they had a pen designed for their grip.
Helix Oxford Maths Set
A school essential from KS2 onwards, with compass, protractor, rulers, and pencils in a sturdy tin.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Everything needed for maths classes
- Sturdy metal case
Cons:
- Compasses can feel stiff at first
- Some items small for younger hands
Best for: Older children from age 9+ needing maths equipment.
Personal insight: I bought this for my child’s Year 5 maths simple, classic, and still the standard set.
Sharpie Colour Burst Marker Pens
Perfect for creative projects, these markers are bold, permanent, and long lasting.
Pros:
- Vibrant colours
- Durable tips
- Great for posters and crafts
Cons:
- Permanent ink (can stain clothes)
- Not ideal for young children
Best for: Creative projects, older kids, and craft loving families.
Personal insight: These were a hit for school projects where bold, bright colours were needed.
BIC Kids Evolution Ecolutions Pencils
Eco friendly, strong pencils made from recycled materials. A great everyday school option.
Pros:
- Eco conscious choice
- Resistant to chewing and breakage
- Easy to sharpen
Cons:
- Colours not as bold as premium brands
- Packs can be smaller than rivals
Best for: Everyday writing and drawing for eco conscious families.
Personal insight: I liked that these were tough enough to survive a schoolbag while also being kinder to the planet.
Smiggle Scented Gel Pens
Fun, colorful pens with a variety of scents.
Pros:
- Mix of scented, glitter, neon, and pastel pens
- Handy carry case
- Wide range of colors
Cons:
- Scents can be subtle
- Lids may not stay on
- Ink can stain
Best for: Kids and stationery lovers who enjoy creative, colorful pens.
Personal insight: Fun and colorful, though scents are mild.
Buyer’s Guide What to Look for in Kids’ Stationery
When I was shopping for kids’ stationery, these are the things I wish I had known:
- Durability matters: Cheap pencils that snap constantly just cause frustration.
- Grip friendly designs: Look for ergonomic pens if your child is learning to write.
- Safety first: Non toxic materials and child safe caps are essential for younger children.
- Eco friendly options: Many brands now make recycled or refillable products.
- Budget vs value: Spending a little more on long lasting items can save money in the long run.
Pro Tip: Buy an extra pack of your child’s favourite pencils or crayons they tend to disappear fast during school term.
Safety & Extra Tips
- Encouraging children to use age appropriate tools permanent markers are better for older kids.
- Store stationery safely, especially scissors and compasses.
- The NHS recommends giving children regular breaks during homework and writing tasks to avoid fatigue (NHS Learning Support).
Expert Tip: For younger children, choose triangular pencils or ergonomic grips they naturally encourage the correct hand position.
FAQs
1. What stationery does my child really need for school?
Basics include pencils, a sharpener, rubber, ruler, and colouring pencils. As they get older, add pens, highlighters, and a maths set.
2. Are expensive stationery brands worth it?
Often yes, as they last longer and reduce frustration from constant breakage. But there are good budget options too.
3. Which stationery is best for handwriting practice?
Pens like the Stabilo EASYoriginal or triangular pencils help children develop proper grip.
4. Can I buy a full stationery set instead of individual items?
Yes, sets like the Four Candies 39 PCS are perfect starters, though individual products may be more durable.
5. Is eco-friendly stationery good for kids?
Yes, products like BIC Kids Evolution are safe, sustainable, and reliable.
Conclusion
Finding the best stationery set for kids is about balancing fun, function, and durability. My all rounder recommendation is the Staedtler Noris Colouring Pencils reliable, affordable, and loved by schools. For handwriting, the Stabilo EASYoriginal is unbeatable, while the Four Candies 39 PCS Set makes a brilliant starter pack.
I know choosing the right stationery can feel overwhelming with so many options, but with these parent tested favourites, you’ll have the tools your child needs to learn, create, and thrive.
Looking for more back-to-school essentials? Check out these helpful guides:
- 10 of the Best Pencil Cases for School
- Best Kids Backpacks for School and Travel: Ultimate Guide
- Best Name Labels for Kids: Essentials Guide
- 10 Best Kids Water Bottles for Hydration
- Best Lunch Boxes and Bags for Kids: Ultimate Guide
