For many parents in the UAE, "arts and crafts" brings visions of paint on the rug and glitter in the sofa cushions. It is tempting to hand over a tablet instead. But hands-on art gives children something screens do not: they handle real materials, make choices and finish something they made. This guide explains how arts and crafts support children's development, how to manage the mess, and what Toyspry stocks.
Written by the Toyspry Team. Last updated October 2026.
How Arts and Crafts Support Development
- Problem-solving: Art is a series of small decisions: how to make paper stick, what happens when two colours mix. Children learn cause and effect by trying things.
- Spatial thinking: Fitting a house, a sun and a tree onto one page asks children to plan how things sit together.
- Self-expression: Drawing and painting give children a way to show feelings they may not yet have words for. Many children find quiet, repetitive creative activities calming.
- Confidence: Finishing a picture or a craft gives a clear sense of achievement.
The Fine Motor Connection
Before a child can hold a pencil comfortably, the small muscles of the hands and fingers need practice. Art activities give that practice in an enjoyable way:
- Squeezing a glue bottle: Works the muscles of the whole hand.
- Using safety scissors: Cutting asks both hands to work together, with one holding the paper and the other cutting.
- Pinching and rolling dough or clay: A good workout for the fingers used in writing.
- Holding crayons and brushes: Builds grip and control.
If you have concerns about your child's hand skills or writing readiness, talk to your pediatrician or your child's teacher.
Art and Craft Supplies at Toyspry
These are some of the options in our arts and crafts collection. Check each product page for the recommended age and what is included. Prices and availability change.
| Product | Type | Price (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Kids Learning Desk and Smart Projector Painting Table | Drawing and painting desk | 32 |
| English and Arabic Talking Flash Cards with Drawing Board | Flash cards and drawing | 34.5 |
| Avenir Jungle Animals Scratch Art Project Kit | Scratch art | 45 |
| Crayola 96 Count Crayons with Built-In Sharpener | Crayons | 59 |
| Avenir Life in the Forest Sticker Book | Sticker book | 62 |
| 3-in-1 Kids Learning Easel with Magnetic Drawing and Chalkboard | Easel | 79 |
| Mideer 21-Day Creative Craft Adventure (21 model kits) | Craft kits | 219 |
For water-based, mess-free options, see our coloring books guide.
Activity Ideas by Skill
- Toddlers (about 2+): Chunky crayons, finger painting and large sheets of paper, with close supervision.
- Preschoolers (about 3 to 5): Safety scissors with thick-lined cutting pages, stickers and simple craft kits.
- Early school age (5+): Scratch art, paper folding and step-by-step craft kits.
How to Manage the Mess
- The one-mat rule: Use a washable mat or a cheap tablecloth, and teach your child that art happens on the mat.
- Prepare the cleanup first: Keep a damp cloth and a bag within reach before you open the paint.
- Choose washable supplies: Check the packaging for washability and age information.
- Focus on the process: If your child wants a purple sky, let them. Art is about making, not getting it perfect.
Safety
- Supervise young children with paint, scissors, glue and small items such as stickers and beads.
- Check the age label and the materials information on each product page.
- Keep craft supplies away from babies and toddlers who mouth objects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are fine motor activities important for preschoolers?
Fine motor skills use the small muscles of the hands and wrists, and they support writing, buttoning, zipping and using cutlery. Art and craft activities are one enjoyable way to practise them.
What are good art activities for children who do not like sitting still?
Try larger, more active projects, such as painting at an easel, rolling dough, or drawing on a big sheet taped to the floor.
Can art help children manage feelings?
Many children find drawing, painting or modelling dough a calming way to express themselves. It is one helpful activity among many. If you are worried about your child's emotions or behaviour, talk to your pediatrician.
Does Toyspry deliver across the UAE?
Yes. We deliver across the UAE within 1 to 3 days. Delivery is free on orders above AED 100, and cash on delivery is available.
Browse arts and crafts at Toyspry or explore Crayola art supplies.