Fall is the perfect time to engage your preschooler in a fun, seasonal craft that celebrates the harvest season. This simple activity allows children to practice their fine motor skills and encourages creativity and hands-on learning. Whether you're a homeschooling parent or just looking for a weekend project, these stuffed paper apples are a fun way to spend time with your little one.
WHAT YOU NEED:
- Stuffed Paper Apple pages (You can create your own or find printable templates online)
- Red construction paper or card stock
- Red yarn
- Tape
- Hole punch
- White paper or scrap paper (for stuffing)
- Glue
- Scissors
WHAT TO DO:
Prepare the Apple Cutouts:
Print and cut out the apple template. On your red construction paper or card stock, trace the apple template. Carefully cut out each apple.
Cut out the stem and leaf.
Hole Punch Around the Apple:
Align the two apple cutouts so they match perfectly. Using a hole punch, make holes evenly spaced around the entire perimeter of the apple. Make sure the holes on both cutouts align perfectly.
I like this HOLE PUNCHER because it is flat on the bottom, making it easy for little ones to use. Just set it on the table, align the paper for them, and let them push down on it.
Prepare the Yarn for Lacing:
Cut a long piece of red yarn, enough to thread around the entire apple with a little extra. To make threading easier for your child, tape the end of the yarn to create a firm tip, similar to a shoelace.
Start Lacing:
With the two apple cutouts aligned, start threading the yarn through the holes, lacing about ¾ of the way around the apple. This is a great way for your child to practice their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
Stuff the Apple:
Once you’ve threaded most of the apple, it’s time to stuff it!
Crumple up some white paper or scrap paper and gently stuff it between the two apple cutouts. Be careful not to over-stuff, as you want the apple to maintain its shape and not burst at the seams.
Finish Lacing:
After stuffing the apple, continue lacing the remaining holes until the apple is completely closed. Tie off the yarn with a secure knot, and trim any excess.
Attach the Stem and Leaf:
Finally, push the stem between the two apple pieces at the top and glue it in place. Attach the leaf to the stem with a dab of glue, and your stuffed paper apple is complete!
Educational Benefits:
This craft is more than just a fun fall activity—it’s an excellent opportunity for your child to develop important skills. Cutting, hole-punching, and lacing help strengthen fine motor skills, while following multi-step directions enhances cognitive development. Plus, the process of stuffing the apple encourages sensory exploration.
Display and Enjoy:
Once finished, these adorable stuffed paper apples can be used to decorate your home for the fall season.
The stuffed paper apple activity is simple enough for little hands yet engaging enough to keep your child interested from start to finish. Enjoy the fall season with this charming craft that brings the beauty of the apple harvest into your home!
Xx Jeni
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