Octopus Activities for Kids
The octopus quickly became a favorite when my kids and I explored sea creatures. There’s something so quirky and mysterious about them that naturally grabs attention. That’s why I pulled together this Octopus Activities for Kids list—perfect for when you need something hands-on and fun.
If your family enjoys ocean-themed learning, check out our Ocean Activities for Kids collection. That’s where I keep all our water-loving ideas in one place—from crafts to fun science activities.
Below, I’ll share interesting facts, go-to resources, and a collection of activities that have kept my kids happily occupied. Whether your child is into art, science, or sensory play, there’s something here to fit your day.
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Surprising Things You Didn’t Know About Octopuses
- An octopus has three hearts. Two pumps blood to the gills, and one pumps it to the rest of the body.
- Their blood isn’t red—it’s blue, thanks to a copper-rich protein that helps them survive in deep, cold water.
- These animals can escape predators by slipping through spaces as small as a coin, thanks to their boneless bodies.
Recommended Octopus Books
I always start our unit with a good book or two. Whether we’re snuggled on the couch or reading aloud before bed, stories and facts about these fascinating creatures make a big impact.
Mysterious, Marvelous Octopus!Octopus OppositesPencil Draws An Octopus – A Fun-Filled Early Reader Story Book for Preschool, Toddlers, Kindergarten and 1st Graders: An Interactive, Easy to Read Tale for Kids (The Drawing Pencil 20)Octopus Shocktopus!Charlie and the OctopusOctopus’s Garden
Why should kids learn about octopuses?
Octopuses are a perfect way to get kids curious about marine biology. They’re not just weird and wiggly—they’re smart, adaptable, and totally unique among ocean animals. My kids loved hearing how they can unscrew jar lids or camouflage in the blink of an eye.
Studying these sea animals also opens up conversations about ecosystems, behavior, and adaptation. We compared them to animals we see every day, and it helped us understand the incredible variety of life beneath the surface.
Recommended Ocean Printable Packs
If you need something ready to go, I recommend grabbing our ocean-themed printable packs. They’re packed with fun activities that mix learning and creativity.
How do you make learning about ocean animals engaging?
I’ve found that the best way to teach ocean life—especially animals like the octopus—is to keep things hands-on. We do a mix of reading, crafting, and experiments so the ideas really click. One of my favorite memories is watching my son pretend he had tentacles while we made a yarn octopus. It also helps to ask questions that lead to more questions. When my daughter learned that octopuses squirt ink, she immediately wanted to know why—and that turned into a whole afternoon of messy, memorable learning.
Recommended Octopus Toys
I’ve picked up a few fun octopus-themed toys over the years that make learning feel like play. Whether it’s a puzzle, memory game, or squishy sensory toy, having something tangible adds an extra layer of excitement.
Octopus Wall Crawling Sticky Toys for Kids, 4 Pack, Soft and Flexible Squishy Walkers, Bright and Colorful Climbers, Washable and Reusable Stickiness, Birthday Party Favors and Egg StuffersEco 3D Wooden Puzzle – Octopus from Deluxebase. Sustainable Wood Animal Puzzle Craft Set. Model Building Kit for Educational Toys and Kids Party Favors.HAS Floor Puzzles for Ages Kids 4+, 48 PCS Double-Sided Octopus Puzzles, Unique Large Pieces Irregular Shape Jigsaw Puzzle for ChildrenMudpuppy Socktopus Octopus – 8 Legged Version of Classic Kids Crazy 8’s Memory Game with Color Matching and Pattern Recognition for Children Ages 5 and Up, 2-4 PlayersOctopus Squishy Toys for Kids and Adults, Octopus Sensory Toys, 3Pcs Fidget Toys, Stress Balls for Boys and Girls Ages 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13, Classroom Prizes, Party FavorsContinuum Games Tentacle Tantrum Fast-Paced Octopus Game of Matches and Squiddy Snatches | 2-6 Players, 20-Minute Play Time, Ages 3 and Up | Family Games for Kids and Adults
Supplies You’ll Need for These Octopus Activities
- Construction paper
- Glue and tape
- Scissors (kid-friendly)
- Markers or crayons
- Cupcake ingredients if you’re baking
- Cotton balls, yarn, or clothespins for crafts
- Access to water or bins for sensory play
More Ocean Animal Activities To Try
Don’t stop at octopuses—there’s a whole sea of animals to explore. In our other ocean-themed posts, you’ll find even more craft ideas, sensory setups, and science projects.
- Ocean Animals Food Chain Printables
- Octopus Activities for Kindergarten
- Types of Sharks Printables
- Ocean Animal Matching Game by Homeschool Preschool
- Ocean Cutting Practice Pages by Simple Everyday Mom
There are so many creative ways to learn with octopus-themed activities, no matter what your child is into. These projects have filled our days with curiosity, laughter, and a healthy dose of ocean wonder.