Feed the Squirrel Activity with Free Printable
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This Feed the Squirrel activity is a fun way for preschoolers to practice fine motor skills while playing with colorful pom-poms. Children feed the pom-poms through the squirrel’s mouth and watch them collect inside its clear belly!
It makes an adorable fall classroom, daycare, homeschool, or at-home activity.
Free Feed the Squirrel Printable
Print the squirrel on cardstock, color it, and attach it to cardboard to make it sturdy enough for repeated play.
[DOWNLOAD THE FREE FEED THE SQUIRREL PRINTABLE HERE]
Supplies
- Feed the Squirrel printable
- Cardstock or printer paper
- Cardboard
- Crayons or markers
- Scissors
- Craft knife, for adult use only
- Strong craft glue or hot glue, for adult use only
- Tape
- Brown and tan pom-poms
Choose one of these options to catch the pom-poms:
- Clear cellophane or a clear plastic sheet and a large plastic or paper cup—the recommended method
- Large clear resealable bag—the optional alternative method
How to Make the Feed the Squirrel Activity
Cup Method
- Print and color the squirrel.
- Glue the printable to a sturdy piece of cardboard.
- Have an adult carefully cut out the squirrel’s mouth and oval belly opening.
- Cover the belly opening with clear cellophane and secure it to the back of the cardboard with tape.
- Cut a large plastic or paper cup in half from top to bottom.
- Position one half of the cup behind the squirrel with its open top directly below the mouth and its cut side against the cardboard.
- Glue the cup securely to the back so it forms a pocket behind the clear belly window.
- Allow the glue to dry completely before adding the pom-poms.
Children can drop the pom-poms through the squirrel’s mouth and watch them collect inside its clear belly.
Plastic Bag Alternative
A large clear resealable bag can be used instead of the cellophane and cup. Tape the bag securely behind the squirrel with its opening positioned below the mouth and the rest of the bag extending behind the belly opening. Because the bag may collapse or shift during play, use additional tape around the opening to help hold it in place.
Fall Fine Motor Activity
Children can pick up the pom-poms with their fingers and push them through the squirrel’s mouth. For an extra fine motor challenge, provide child-safe tongs or clothespins.
You can also invite children to:
- Count the pom-poms as they feed the squirrel
- Sort the pom-poms by color
- Create simple patterns
- Compare which color has the most or fewest
- Pretend the pom-poms are acorns the squirrel is gathering for fall
Helpful Tips
The half-cup method works especially well because the rigid cup stays open beneath the squirrel’s mouth and securely holds the pom-poms. Make sure the cellophane and cup are firmly attached before children begin playing.
Small pom-poms can be a choking hazard. This activity should always be used with adult supervision and is not appropriate for children who still place small objects in their mouths.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is this activity for?
This activity is best for preschool and early elementary-aged children who can safely play with small pom-poms under adult supervision.
Can I make the printable reusable?
Yes. Print it on cardstock or glue it to cardboard. You can also laminate the printable before cutting out the openings.
What can I use instead of pom-poms?
Try crumpled pieces of brown paper, large felt balls, or other lightweight fall-themed manipulatives that are appropriate for your child’s age.
More Fall Activities for Kids
Looking for more easy ways to keep little hands busy this season? Try this apple stamping pumpkin patch craft, make an apple stamping mason jar printable craft, or set up a S’mores preschool sensory bin for another playful fine motor activity.
Great idea!
Thank you so much! I’m really glad you like it! Your support means a lot! 🙂