New research shows that fun, colourful stationery isn’t just for show – it can actually make children smarter
Studies suggest that colourful pens, patterned notebooks and even scented pencils can help improve memory, boost creativity and encourage better focus in school.
The findings come as families begin preparing for the busy back-to-school season, with millions of children set to return to the classroom next week.
Ahead of this annual event, high street stationer Ryman has highlighted multiple scientific studies that demonstrate colourful stationery can help kids learn.
A study from the University of Dundee uncovered that using colour during study sessions significantly aids memory retention and task engagement.
Meanwhile, research from Princeton and UCLA in the US found students who write by hand recall more information than those who type notes digitally.
Chloe Danskin, head of marketing at Ryman, said: “There’s something undeniably nostalgic about that new stationery feeling – the smell of a freshly sharpened pencil or the smooth glide of a new gel pen.
“But these things are more than just fun novelties, in a world dominated by screens, little details can make learning feel tactile, personal and even exciting.
“A rainbow of highlighters can turn revision into a creative exercise, with each colour unlocking a new layer of memory. A glittery pencil case isn’t just cute, it gives children a sense of ownership over their tools and pride in their work.
“When school supplies are playful, they become something to look forward to, helping kids approach tasks with enthusiasm, not reluctance. After all, who wouldn’t want to practise spelling if it meant using your favourite bubblegum-scented pen?”
Ryman is helping parents get ready for back to school season with a range of sensory-friendly and brain-boosting stationery designed to support learning, including scented gel pens, coloured notebooks, highlighters and fun pencil cases.
