Animal crafts for kids provide a delightful avenue for creativity and learning, sparking a lifelong appreciation for the wonders of the animal kingdom. These engaging animal crafts not only foster fine motor skills and artistic expression but also encourage curiosity about the diverse creatures that share our planet. From toddlers to preschoolers and beyond, crafting animal-themed projects offers a fun and educational experience for children of all ages.
This curated collection of 25 easy animal crafts for kids is designed to inspire young minds and ignite their imaginations. We’ve handpicked animal crafts that cater to various skill levels and age groups, ensuring that every child can find something exciting to create. Whether they’re fascinated by majestic unicorns or curious about buzzing bees, these crafts will keep little hands busy and hearts content.
This creative menagerie begins with simple crafts perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. As we progress, the activities gradually increase in complexity, offering challenges and opportunities for growth for kindergarteners and older children. So, gather your supplies, and start making animal crafts with your little ones!
1. DIY Unicorn Paper Roll
Turn recycled materials into a magical friend! This unicorn paper roll craft is a delightful activity for kids, fostering creativity and imagination. With simple steps and readily available supplies, children can create their own colorful unicorn companion.
From designing the mane and tail to crafting the horn and adding finishing touches, the possibilities are endless. It’s a fun and rewarding project for a rainy day or when children want to express their artistic flair.
2. Cut and Paste Mouse Craft Fun for Kids
Engaging in a delightful make-a-mouse craft provides a fun and educational experience perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. With its printable template and simple instructions, children can easily create their own adorable paper mouse. This craft’s versatility allows it to be incorporated into various activities, from learning the alphabet M to decorating paper plates or toilet paper rolls. It’s a fantastic way to spark creativity and engage young learners in hands-on fun.
3. How to Make Squirrel With Bobblehead
This easy paper squirrel craft is perfect for fall-themed activities and animal-themed lessons. Kids can create their own bobblehead squirrel using a printable template, cardstock paper, scissors, glue, and markers. The craft encourages creativity and fine motor skills as children assemble the squirrel’s body, head, and tail. The finished product is a charming bobblehead squirrel that adds a touch of whimsy to any setting.
4. Fork Painted Hedgehog Art
This fork-painted hedgehog craft engages children in a creative and educational experience. Using a printable template, paint, and a fork, kids can craft their own hedgehog artwork while developing essential skills like creativity, fine motor abilities, and planning. This fun and easy activity is perfect for fostering artistic expression and encouraging learning through play.
5. Simple DIY Paper Plate Robin Spring
Welcome spring with this charming paper plate robin craft! Perfect for young children and adults alike, this project repurposes simple materials into a delightful representation of a beloved songbird. The craft encourages creativity and fine motor skill development as participants paint, cut, and assemble their robins. Whether following the template or adding personal touches, this craft is a fun and engaging way to welcome the season.
6. Handprint Butterfly Art and Craft
Capture a child’s creativity and create a treasured keepsake with this handprint butterfly craft. This simple project involves tracing a child’s handprints onto colorful paper and transforming them into a beautiful butterfly. With a few additional craft supplies and the provided template, kids of all ages can create personalized masterpieces to be cherished as decorations or heartfelt gifts.
7. Paper Bag Monkey Puppet Craft
Turn an ordinary paper bag into a playful monkey puppet with this engaging craft. The free printable template simplifies the process, allowing both kids and adults to create a charming character for imaginative play, storytelling, or safari-themed fun. With colorful paper, basic craft supplies, and a bit of creativity, this project sparks joy and fosters bonding.
8. Letter H is for Horse for Preschoolers
Ignite children’s creativity and learning with this engaging H is for Horse craft! This educational activity combines art and learning, making it a perfect way to introduce kids to the letter H. With a simple-to-use printable template and minimal supplies, kids can craft their own adorable horse while enhancing their fine motor skills and understanding of letter recognition. It’s a fun and rewarding project for parents, teachers, and caregivers to share with little ones.
9. Make a Paper Cup Dog
Craft your own playful paper cup dog with this fun and easy project for dog lovers of all ages! Customize your pup’s breed and appearance using colored craft paper, paints, and a free printable template. Whether crafting alone or with family, this activity sparks creativity and joy, leaving you with a unique furry friend to display or play with.
10. Jar Lid Fishes Project
Repurpose old jar lids into a vibrant school of fish with this creative craft! This project is perfect for kids, combining simple materials with endless decorative possibilities. Using construction paper, paint, and everyday household items, children can design unique fish with colorful scales, fins, and tails. Attach a string to each fish to create a charming fish mobile, or fill the jar lids with small objects to make delightful shakers. Let your imagination run wild and dive into this fun-filled craft!
11. Easy DIY Crab From Painted Shells
Transform seashells collected on summer adventures into charming crab crafts with this easy and fun activity. Kids and adults alike can enjoy painting and decorating scallop shells, adding googly eyes and paper legs to create unique crustacean characters. This craft is a perfect way to repurpose natural materials, spark creativity, and cherish memories of seaside fun.
12. Tissue Paper Bee Craft for Kindergarten
Buzz into spring with this engaging tissue paper bee craft! Perfect for teaching kids about bees and their importance as pollinators, this craft helps develop fine motor skills and helps them follow directions. With a free template and readily available supplies like tissue paper, cardstock, scissors, and glue, children can create colorful, textured bees that bring learning to life in a fun and creative way.
13. Thanksgiving Owl Arts and Crafts for Toddlers and Kids
Engage toddlers in a simple and fun Thanksgiving craft with these adorable cupcake liner owls. This easy activity lets children practice folding and gluing while creating charming owl decorations. Personalize each owl with googly eyes, colorful beaks, and optional leaf decorations. These delightful creations make perfect gifts for loved ones or charming additions to Thanksgiving decor.
14. Making a Paper Ladybug
This easy paper ladybug craft is a fun and simple activity that is perfect for kids. Using readily available materials like colored paper, cardboard, and googly eyes, children can create their own adorable ladybugs. The step-by-step instructions guide kids through crafting the ladybug’s body, wings, and face, making it a great way to develop fine motor skills and creativity. The finished ladybug can be used for imaginative play, decorations, or educational projects about insects.
15. DIY Popsicle Stick Dragonfly Under 30 Minutes
Bring summer fun indoors with these easy and adorable popsicle stick dragonflies! This craft is perfect for kids of all ages, requiring just a few basic supplies like colored popsicle sticks, pom poms, and googly eyes. Let your creativity take flight as you design unique dragonflies with different colors and patterns. These charming creations are perfect for playtime, decorations, or even as gifts. With minimal time and effort, you can create a swarm of whimsical dragonflies to brighten any space.
16. Black Cat Craft
This paper bobblehead black cat craft is a fun and easy Halloween activity for kids. With a free printable template, children can create their own wobbly feline friend using simple materials like cardstock, construction paper, and glue. The craft enhances fine motor skills and creativity, making it a perfect project for home or school.
17. Cool DIY Cotton Ball Sheep
Craft an adorable sheep puppet with this easy and engaging activity for kids! Using simple supplies like cotton balls, cardstock, and googly eyes, create a fluffy friend perfect for imaginative play and storytelling. The free printable template simplifies the process, allowing even young children to participate. This craft encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and hours of fun with your new woolly companion.
18. Racoon Paper Idea
Observe International Racoon Appreciation Day with this adorable printable raccoon paper craft. This simple project includes a free template, making it easy for kids and adults to create a cute and cuddly raccoon.
The craft involves tracing and cutting out paper pieces and then assembling them to form the raccoon’s body, head, and facial features. It’s a fun and engaging way to learn about these fascinating animals while developing fine motor skills and creativity.
19. 3D Halloween Toilet Paper Roll Bat Craft
Celebrate Halloween with this easy and spooky 3D toilet paper roll bat craft! Using a free printable template and simple supplies like craft paper, googly eyes, and glue, create a festive decoration for your home. This project is perfect for both kids and adults, providing a fun way to get into the Halloween spirit while honing crafting skills.
20. Handmade Zoo Animal
Turn old newspapers into a playful zoo with these easy-to-make animal crafts! This project is perfect for kids, using simple materials like paint, glue, and printable templates to create a lion, frog, giraffe, and hippo. Follow the step-by-step instructions and video tutorial to transform recycled materials into colorful animal friends. It’s a fun and creative way to learn about different animals while reducing waste.
21. Cute DIY Paper Elephant
Create a playful paper elephant with this easy craft for kids! Use a free printable template and a few simple supplies like construction paper, colored pencils, and glue to assemble a delightful elephant. This activity encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and imaginative play.
22. DIY Sticks Bald Eagle for Elementary Students
Celebrate the patriotic spirit with this adorable craft stick bald eagle craft! Perfect for Independence Day or any time of year, this project transforms simple popsicle sticks into a majestic symbol of freedom. Kids and adults alike can enjoy painting and assembling the eagle using readily available materials like cardstock, googly eyes, and hot glue. This popsicle sticks craft fosters creativity, fine motor skills, and a sense of national pride.
23. How to Make a Construction Paper Ostrich
Bring the exotic allure of ostriches to your crafting table with this simple construction paper project. Perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to any space or creating themed decorations, this craft allows you to construct your own ostrich using just a few basic materials. Cut out shapes from construction paper, add a feather for a playful touch, and personalize your ostrich with unique details. This easy and enjoyable craft is a great way to unleash your creativity and learn about these fascinating birds.
24. Peacock Bookmark Craft Free Printable
Add a touch of whimsy to your reading with this delightful peacock bookmark craft! This project is perfect for book lovers of all ages, offering a fun and creative way to personalize your reading experience. Using colored craft paper and a free printable template, you can easily create a unique and eye-catching bookmark. Whether you’re crafting alone or with kids, this project encourages creativity and fine motor skills development while resulting in a practical and charming accessory.
25. How to Do Paper Plate Snake
Craft a unique paper plate snake that actually rattles! This project is a fun twist on the classic paper plate snake, combining crafting with sensory play. By painting and assembling two paper plates, adding pony beads for the rattle, and decorating with various materials, you create a one-of-a-kind snake instrument. This craft encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and imaginative play, making it a perfect activity for kids.
For Parents and Teachers
How to Use:
- Choose Age-Appropriate Activities: This collection offers crafts suitable for a range of ages. Select projects that match your child’s developmental stage and interests.
- Gather Materials: Each craft lists the necessary supplies. Most items are common household objects or readily available at craft stores.
- Set Up a Creative Space: Designate a well-lit, clutter-free area where your child can work comfortably. Cover surfaces with newspaper or a plastic tablecloth for easy cleanup.
- Provide Guidance: Offer assistance as needed, but encourage your child to explore their creativity and problem-solve independently.
- Celebrate the Process: Focus on the joy of creating, not just the finished product. Praise your child’s effort and unique ideas.
How These Activities Benefit Kids:
- Develop Fine Motor Skills: Cutting, gluing, and manipulating materials refine hand-eye coordination and dexterity.
- Enhance Creativity: Crafts encourage children to express themselves and think outside the box.
- Boost Cognitive Skills: Following instructions, problem-solving, and planning enhance critical thinking abilities.
- Promote Sensory Exploration: Tactile experiences with diverse materials stimulate the senses.
- Nurture Patience and Focus: Completing a project from start to finish fosters perseverance and attention span.
- Spark a Love for Animals: Learning about different creatures through crafts encourages curiosity about the natural world.
Best Ways to Engage Kids:
- Make it Fun: Play music, tell stories related to the animal being crafted, or create a themed crafting party.
- Connect to Interests: If your child loves dinosaurs, start with the paper plate snake or construction paper ostrich.
- Encourage Collaboration: Work on projects together as a family or invite friends for a crafting playdate.
- Display Creations: Showcase finished crafts in your home or classroom to boost your child’s confidence.
- Relate to Real Life: Visit a zoo, aquarium, or nature center to inspire creativity and connect crafts to real animals.
Remember, the most important aspect is to have fun and create positive memories together! Let these animal crafts be a springboard for exploration, learning, and shared moments of joy.
Conclusion
Animal crafts for kids ignite imagination and foster a love for the natural world. From toddlers to kindergarteners, these 25 easy animal crafts for kids offer engaging, educational fun. Whether it’s a majestic bald eagle or a playful paper plate snake, each craft sparks curiosity and encourages learning. So, gather your supplies and get your children with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the animal kingdom with these animal crafts.
