This Paper Plate Sun Craft is a simple space activity that works well for kids of all ages. I have always loved having an easy art project on hand that also connects to science. When my older kids were younger, we did a lot of hands-on space themes at the kitchen table. Crafts like this one provided a calm way to talk about space without using worksheets.

If you are building a full space unit, you may also want to look at these space activities for kids.

Keep reading if you are looking for an easy space craft to add to your plans. I am sharing how this sun-themed paper plate activity fits into early learning, what kids can learn from it, and a few ideas to keep the fun going.

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Why do kids need to learn about the sun?

Learning about the sun helps kids understand the world around them, from daylight to weather. A hands-on solar craft gives young learners a concrete way to connect science ideas with something they can see and touch.

When my teens were in their early grades, we used simple sun projects like this to explain how the sun provides light and warmth. This paper plate solar art project keeps the topic age-appropriate while still building early science knowledge.

Recommended Space Books

Reading space books alongside a craft helps reinforce new ideas through stories and pictures. Even a short read-aloud can support vocabulary and curiosity about the solar system.

Saddle the Sun (Little Golden Book)Hello, Sun!: A Seuss Studios Book (Beginner Books)I Am the Sun: A Book About the Sun for Kids (I Am Learning: Educational Series for Kids)Sun! One in a Billion (Our Universe, 2)The Talking Sun: A rhyming picture book about the Sun Thank You, Sun (Thank You, World)

What can kids learn from this activity?

This sun craft is more than an art project. It supports early learning in several important ways.

Basic facts about the sun and its role in space
Fine motor skills through cutting, gluing, and assembling
Following step-by-step directions in the correct order

Recommended Space Printable Packs

If you want to build on this activity, I also use space-themed printable packs to support learning. These printables are effective for quiet follow-ups or independent practice for early learners.

process on how to do the paper plate sun crafr

Paper Plate Sun Supplies

Paper plate
Construction paper
Glue
Scissor
Marker
Yellow paint
Printer and Paper/cardstock for the template

Making the Space Science Sun Art Project

As kids work on this paper plate sun, they get to explore shapes, colors, and simple design choices. Painting the plate yellow is often a favorite part and gives them a chance to slow down and focus.

Cutting and assembling the pieces allows kids to practice patience and coordination. When my older kids were younger, this was always the stage where they liked to personalize their projects.

Once the face is added, the craft really comes together. Seeing their finished sun gave my kids a sense of pride and made our space lessons feel more memorable.

Ways to extend the activity

This sun craft can easily lead to more space learning without much extra prep.

Create a paper-plate spaceship craft. This pairs well with the sun craft and helps kids think about space travel.
Play space-themed learning games – Games are a great way to review concepts in a relaxed way.
Compare the sun to other planets – Talk about size, color, and position in the solar system using simple language.
Draw a space scene – Have kids draw the sun along with stars and planets to build creativity and recall.

More space activities to try

If your kids enjoy this craft, there are many other space ideas you can explore together.

Sun Worksheets for Preschool
Sun Worksheets for Kids
Space Experiments for Kids
22 Must-Try Space Crafts for Kids by Simple Everyday Mom
Outer Space Activity Pages by 3 Boys and a Dog

This paper plate sun project is a simple way to introduce space science through hands-on learning. It creates meaningful conversations and memories while supporting early skills. Try it with your child today.