Paper Plate Animals is a fantastic craft for young kids to explore animals, colors, shapes, and creativity—all while developing fine motor skills. With just a few basic craft supplies, children can make lions, pigs, elephants, frogs, or even made-up creatures!
This activity is especially great for preschoolers learning about animals and their features (ears, noses, whiskers, etc.). It’s also easy to adapt for different themes, story tie-ins, or seasonal fun. Whether you’re crafting a jungle full of paper animals or just one favorite pet, it’s a mess-friendly and engaging project.
Materials Needed
• Paper plates
• Paint or markers
• Googly eyes
• Construction paper (for ears, noses, tongues, etc.)
• Glue
• Scissors (adult supervision if needed)
Tools Needed
• Paintbrushes (if using paint)
• Child-safe scissors
• Glue stick or white glue
Steps
1. Pick an Animal: Choose which animal to make (e.g., cat, frog, pig).
2. Paint the Plate: Use paint or markers to color the paper plate the base color of your animal.
3. Cut and Attach Features: Cut out ears, whiskers, noses, or horns from construction paper and glue them on.
4. Add Googly Eyes: Stick on googly eyes to bring your animal to life.
5. Let It Dry: Set aside to dry fully, then show off your paper plate pet!
Variations
• Mask Version: Cut eye holes and attach a stick or string to turn it into a wearable animal mask.
• 3D Add-ons: Use cotton balls (for sheep), yarn (for manes), or pipe cleaners (for whiskers).
• Story Time Tie-In: Make animals from a favorite book and act it out afterward.
• Group Display: Make a zoo wall or animal parade by hanging everyone’s creations together.
• Fantasy Animals: Create dragons, unicorns, or imaginary creatures with extra sparkle and flair.
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