Tux Paint is a free, open-source drawing program designed specifically for children ages 3 to 12. Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, Tux Paint provides a simple, engaging interface with sound effects and a cartoon penguin guide that makes digital art fun and accessible for young users.
The toolbar presents drawing tools with large, colorful icons that children recognize easily. Tux, the Linux penguin mascot, provides tips and explanations about each tool. Sound effects accompany actions for engaging feedback. Simple button-based interface requires no menu navigation.
Painting tools include brushes of various shapes, a paint bucket for filling areas, and a spray can for airbrushing. The line and shape tools create geometric forms. The text tool adds letters and words in multiple fonts. The eraser removes mistakes.
The Magic tools provide special effects including rainbow painting, sparkles, blur, sharpen, and many more. Stamps place pre-made images including animals, plants, vehicles, symbols, and other objects. Additional stamp packages expand the collection.
Starter images provide drawing and coloring activities with outlines to fill. Slideshow mode displays saved artwork automatically. Print support creates physical copies of drawings. Parent and teacher control options restrict features as appropriate.
The interface includes multiple language support with labels that children learning to read can understand. Accessibility features accommodate disabilities. Configuration options limit save and open functions to prevent file system access.