A set of crayons each having at least one characterizing physical property which differs from other crayons in the set such as color, size, shape, or fragrance have identifying terminations corresponding to the physical property. A universal decoder is provided in a sound emitting device which is adapted to produce an audible tone or message that corresponds to a physical property. Preferably the sound emitting device will include an integrated circuit, microprocessor and speaker components. The sound emitting device may be integral with the crayon. Preferably, the sound emitting device is separable from the crayons and may be physically or electrically coupled to a crayon by the user when a crayon is selected. Alternatively, a sound emitting device is provided which is operational when remote from a selected crayon.