Some days, I want to do something fun with my son that doesn’t require a massive cleanup or a 10-step setup. This Watermelon Paper Plate Craft is one of our go-to summer wins—quick, colorful, and the perfect excuse to sit down and create something together.
This craft is easy to prep and great for fine motor skills. With just a few basic supplies, your child can create a slice of watermelon that’s almost good enough to eat (but don’t!).
I think it’s the perfect way to sneak in some cutting, gluing, and creative play during a hot afternoon or a summer-themed activity week.
What You’ll Need
- Paper plate
- Red and green construction paper
- Child-safe scissors
- Glue stick or liquid glue
- Black marker
Optional: Add a paintbrush for glue spreading or googly eyes if you want to turn the watermelon into a cute character.
Instructions
Step 1. Cut the Paper Plate in Half
This will be your watermelon “slice.” One plate makes two crafts—perfect for siblings or saving for later.
Step 2. Cut the Construction Paper into Squares
Let your child help cut or tear small pieces of red and green construction paper. Don’t worry about perfect shapes—uneven pieces add texture and creativity.
Step 3. Glue the Green Squares on the Outer Edge
This creates the watermelon rind. Help little ones stay along the edge or let them design it however they’d like.
Step 4. Glue the Red Squares on the Center
Fill in the rest of the “slice” with red paper. This is great fine motor work and gives them a satisfying way to cover the space.
Step 5. Draw the Seeds
Use a black marker to add seeds to the red area. Younger kids can draw dots or short lines. Older kids might want to draw teardrop-shaped seeds or even decorate their own unique variety.
Why This Craft Is So Good for Kids
Creativity & Self-Expression: Even with basic instructions, no two watermelon slices will look alike. Let kids choose where to glue or how to place their colors—it’s their fruit masterpiece.
Fine Motor Practice: Cutting paper, squeezing glue, and placing squares all build the hand strength and coordination needed for early writing.
Cognitive Skills: This craft involves sequencing, color recognition, and spatial awareness—all wrapped up in one bright, tactile project.
Early Conversations: Use this as a jumping-off point to talk about:
- Summer fruits and healthy snacks
- Where watermelons grow
- What colors you see in real watermelons
- Counting seeds (real and drawn)
Extension Ideas
- Add a craft stick to turn it into a watermelon fan
- Use paint or torn paper for a more sensory-rich option
- Make a watermelon garland with string and clothespins
A Slice of Summer Fun
Summer crafts like this one are a great reminder that simple is enough. You don’t need a fancy setup to create sweet memories and support your child’s development.
This watermelon slice might not drip juice down your arm but it just might brighten your fridge for the rest of the week. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can toddlers do this craft?
Yes! You can pre-cut the paper and help with gluing while they focus on placement and drawing dots for seeds. It’s a great craft to do together.
What if we don’t have red and green construction paper?
Use colored tissue paper, magazine pages, or even let your child color white paper with crayons or markers before tearing it up.
Does this craft have to be “realistic”?
Not at all! If your child wants to make a rainbow watermelon or one with purple seeds and go for it. It’s about creativity, not perfection.
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