Hands-On Fun with HipKids Craft Toys
Creative play is one of the simplest ways to help little people grow, learn and have fun. At HipKids, our kids craft toys encourage imagination, spark curiosity and offer a welcome break from screens. From painting to paper crafting, each piece invites kids to explore their world with their own two hands.
We believe arts & crafts can be joyful, calming and full of purpose. That’s why we’ve brought together a thoughtful collection of creative toys designed to inspire everything from quiet focus to bold, messy fun. Whether your child loves colouring in or sculpting with dough, there’s something here to suit every kind of maker.
Craft toys can be enjoyed from around 18 months through to the early teens, with supervision and the right materials. At HipKids, we sort toys by age to make shopping easy and safe.
Yes, craft kits support long stretches of screen-free play by keeping hands and minds busy. They’re a great way to bring calm, focus and fun into your daily routine.
Some are, but not all. HipKids offers mess-free options like magnetic sets, colouring pads and wipe-clean activities if you prefer low-fuss play.
Magnetic playsets, stickers, and compact colouring kits are ideal for trips. Our portable picks make cafes and car rides easier for everyone.
Yes, craft toys are excellent for building fine motor strength and control. Activities like beading, drawing and folding all support muscle development.
All HipKids craft toys are tested to meet Australian safety standards and are free from harmful materials. You can shop with confidence knowing safety comes first.
Birthday favourites include our art kit sets, kinetic sand tubs, and themed Tiger Tribe packs. You can find something fun for every budget and even pay in AUD at checkout.
HipKids Craft Toys by Skill and Play Type
Every child creates in their own way. Some love structure, while others prefer to experiment. Our craft toys are grouped by the way kids like to play, making it easier for you to shop with their personality and interests in mind.
These thoughtfully chosen categories help take the guesswork out of picking the right activity kit or art set. Whether you’re after a quick win, a full afternoon project or a quiet travel-friendly toy, this guide will lead the way.
The Best Craft Toys for Growing Minds
Creative play grows with your child. Our craft toys range from beginner-friendly activities to more detailed projects for older kids. Each category is designed to support different stages of development while keeping playtime fun and engaging.
Art & Craft Kits
Big creativity often starts with simple supplies. Our collection of all-in-one craft kits includes painting sets, shrink art, nature-themed projects and even slime making kits. Each craft set gives your child the chance to follow steps, build skills and enjoy the satisfaction of finishing something themselves.
We stock trusted names like Tiger Tribe, Melissa & Doug and Djeco, offering high-quality materials in every pack. From mould and paint kits to kinetic sand sets, these kits build patience, attention to detail and pride in their creations.
Colouring, Drawing & Activity Sets
Creative confidence grows with everyday practice. Our art kits, drawing pads and colouring books give little artists the tools to explore freely without pressure. These open-ended sets are great for repetition, experimentation and quiet time play.
From mess-free drawing tablets to a simple box of crayons, there’s something soothing about having a go at your own pace. Some sets even come with built-in easels for extra comfort during play.
Stickers, Tattoos & Scratch Art
Some kids prefer fast fun they can peel, scratch or show off. Sticker books, rub-on tattoos and scratch art sets give little ones a quick, satisfying way to express themselves. These small wins matter. They help build independence and joy in creating.
They’re also perfect for parties, travel bags or café entertainment. With a variety of themes and colours, from pastel animals to bold dinos, there’s something for every tiny personality.
Magnetic Play Sets
Quiet, focused play gets easier with the right tools. Our magnetic playset range includes themed scenes and mix-and-match characters that let your tot explore storytelling, patterns and pretend play without the mess.
These compact sets are made for café tables, road trips and waiting rooms. Lightweight and low fuss, they help keep kids engaged wherever you go. They also make great sibling toys, allowing kids to play side-by-side in peace.
Paper Crafts & Dress Up
Crafting meets imagination in our paper dolls, crown kits and wearable playsets. These toys blend creative making with dress-up fun, inviting kids to make something they can then use in pretend play.
Paper crafts encourage storytelling, social play and hands-on creativity in one go. They’re also ideal for kids who like to create with a purpose, finishing a project they can wear, share or use in their playroom.
Stationery & Creative Accessories
Keeping craft supplies neat makes it easier for kids to come back to them. Our pencil cases, trays, and desk organisers give children a sense of ownership over their space, while adding colour and function to the room.
We also stock creative tools like pastel markers, sticker sheets and themed writing sets that keep ideas flowing. A simple upgrade to their stationery kit can make all the difference during playtime or homework.
Which Craft Toys Suit Your Tot’s Age Group?
Every stage of childhood brings new ways to play. This simple guide can help you choose creative toys that suit your child’s development and interests.
| Age Group | Recommended Craft Toys |
| 1–2 years | Sensory toys, large crayons, sticker books |
| 3–4 years | Colouring books, play-doh, simple activity kits |
| 5–6 years | Art kits, dress-up crafts, mosaic sets |
| 7–8 years | Drawing sets, DIY jewellery, paper crafts |
| 9+ years | Model kits, loom sets, advanced art sets |
How Craft Toys Help Your Little One Learn and Grow
Creative toys do more than fill in time. They help shape how children learn, communicate and understand the world around them. Craft play supports the body, the brain and emotional well-being in meaningful ways.
Here’s how craft toys support healthy development:
- Fine motor skill growth: Holding pencils, peeling stickers or threading beads strengthens small hand muscles and improves grip.
- Problem-solving skills: Following steps in a making kit teaches cause and effect and how to plan ahead.
- Creative thinking: Open-ended toys like art sets and DIY kits encourage kids to make decisions and try new ideas.
- Confidence building: Completing a craft boosts self-esteem and shows children they’re capable of independent creation.
- Emotional regulation: Crafting can be calming, helping kids focus and manage big feelings during quiet play.
Picking the Right Craft Toys for Your Little Tyke
Choosing a craft toy is about your little tot’s age, personality, preferences and how your child plays. Thinking ahead helps you pick toys that feel exciting and manageable for your tot.
A few smart tips to guide your selection:
- Match their attention span: Long kits suit focused kids, while short, repeatable activities work well for wiggly toddlers.
- Think about mess levels: Some love paint and glue, while others (and their carers) prefer reusable or wipe-clean play.
- Follow their interests: Into animals? Stickers, stamps or themed playsets. Love pretend play? Try dress-up kits or dollhouse crafts.
- Support their independence: Choose kits they can do with minimal help to build pride and self-direction.
- Balance structure and freedom: A craft kit offers guidance, while a blank sketch pad opens the door to imagination.
Keep the Fun Going with More from HipKids
Thoughtful, screen-free play sits at the heart of everything we do. Across Australia, families trust our best-selling creative toys to spark imagination and support growing minds through hands-on fun that lasts beyond the moment.
Keep the inspiration flowing by browsing complementary categories, from sensory play to indoor activity sets. You can shop at sale price, grab gift cards for easy presents, or choose Click & Collect for added convenience at checkout.
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