Fall is the perfect time to enjoy creative activities with your child. As the leaves change and the weather cools, indoor crafts can offer learning opportunities and quality time together. One easy and engaging idea is the Scarecrow Paper Plate craft.
This hands-on project is perfect for young children. It helps with fine motor skills, following directions, and expressing creativity—all while having fun. At Circle City ABA, we love turning seasonal fun into skill-building moments, and this craft checks all the boxes.
What You’ll Need for Your Scarecrow Paper Plate Craft
This scarecrow project uses common craft materials, many of which you may already have at home.
Materials:
- 1 plain white paper plate
- Construction paper (yellow, brown, red, orange)
- Googly eyes or markers
- Glue stick or school glue
- Child-safe scissors
- Black marker
- Crayons or markers
- Optional: buttons, stickers, or yarn for decoration
If you’re gathering supplies from scratch, local craft stores or general retailers like Walmart or Amazon carry everything you need.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making a Scarecrow Paper Plate
Follow these simple steps to complete your Scarecrow Paper Plate craft. Young children may need a little help with cutting and gluing, so work alongside them for a great bonding experience.
Step 1: Create the Face
Turn the paper plate upside down so the curved side faces up. This will be the scarecrow’s face. Use crayons or markers to color the plate a light beige or leave it white if you prefer.
Glue on googly eyes or draw eyes with a marker. Add a triangle-shaped nose using orange paper and glue it in place. Finish the face by drawing a stitched smile with a black marker.
Step 2: Cut the Hair
Cut several thin strips of yellow construction paper for the scarecrow’s hair. These should be about the length of a finger. Glue the strips around the top and sides of the plate, letting them hang down to look like straw.
Step 3: Make the Hat
Cut a hat shape from brown or red construction paper. It can be a simple rectangle with a triangle on top or any shape you like. Glue the hat at the top of the plate, covering part of the hair.
For fun, you can decorate the hat with a small square patch, button, or fall leaf shape.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
Let your child personalize the scarecrow. Add buttons for cheeks, draw freckles, or stick on a bow made from ribbon or paper.
Let the glue dry completely before hanging the scarecrow on the fridge, door, or bulletin board.
Why We Love the Scarecrow Paper Plate Craft
This simple project offers more than fall fun. It’s a great way to support early development.
- Fine Motor Skills: Cutting and gluing help strengthen little hands.
- Following Directions: Each step helps children learn how to follow simple tasks.
- Creativity: Kids choose their colors and add personal touches.
At Circle City ABA, we often use crafts like these during sessions to support learning through play.
Make Learning Fun with Circle City ABA
Looking for more fun, skill-building activities for your child? Circle City ABA offers play-based ABA therapy that meets your child where they are and helps them grow in ways that feel natural and joyful.
Our centers provide a warm, welcoming environment for children of all abilities. We offer personalized care plans and involve families every step of the way.
Contact Circle City ABA to Get Started
We’re here to help your child learn, grow, and thrive. Whether you’re looking for support after a diagnosis or want to explore your options, we’re ready to help.
To get started, contact our admissions team for more information on our services and how we can support you and your child. Find a location near you! We serve Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, and Nebraska. Let’s build skills and smiles together.
Sources: Crafty Morning; Easy Peasy and Fun; & I Heart Crafty Things
