| Art Supplies
Some art supplies such as artists’ pastels and permanent markers contain solvents, asbestos,
lead, and cadmium. These chemicals are toxic and can be inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or
eaten by children if they are not properly used.
Health Effects: The health effects from chemicals found in art supplies can range from headaches or nausea
to neurological disorders, cancer, birth defects, and even death.
How to Avoid or Minimize Exposure: Avoid solvent-based products; instead buy water-based products. Always supervise children when
they are using products
that may contain harmful chemicals. Certain products are made to smell like food and so are more appealing for children to eat.
Avoid artists' pastels, as many contain asbestos, contaminated talc, lead, and cadmium pigments.
Do not eat around art materials, and always clean up using a vacuum or wet mop after using art materials. Sweeping can inadvertently stir up toxic dust, which can then be inhaled.
Avoid permanent felt tip markers; instead choose crayons, poster paints, and dustless chalk. Avoid airplane, epoxy, and instant bonding glues; instead choose white glue or school paste.
Be sure to read the labels on all the products you use. The Art and Creative Materials Institute (ACMI) created a labeling system designed to increase awareness of the toxicity of certain art supplies. Look for AP (approved product non-toxic) and CP (certified product non-toxic) labels; these denote that a product is safe for pre-schoolers and up.
Links to Related Resources
ERF Lead Fact Sheet
ERF Cadmium Fact Sheet
| 
