Penguin Ice Skating Sensory Activity (with Printable Templates!)

Penguin ice skating sensory activity is such a cute winter craft-meets-sensory-play idea that kids absolutely love. With free printable penguin templates, DIY penguin ice skates, and real ice “skate bases,” kids can craft, color, and play all in one project!

During cold winter days, I love offering hands-on activities that make indoor time feel magical. Activities like this penguin sensory play are perfect for creative kiddos who like to build something and then enjoy imaginative play afterward.

Around this time of year, I love filling our days with winter crafts and sensory activities that keep little hands busy and curious. Some of our favorites are homemade 2-ingredient snow, our paper plate ice skating craft, and the adorable catching snowflakes printable and craft – they’re simple, colorful, and perfect for indoor play when it’s cold outside. This penguin ice skating sensory activity fits right in and gives kids a chance to create, explore, and pretend all in one project.

What Kids Will Love

Cold sensory experience that feels exciting and seasonal

Coloring and personalizing their own penguins

Watching the ice glide around like real skaters

Using imagination for storytelling and pretend play

Supplies You’ll Need

Penguin printable templates – Penguins and skates – Penguin Wings (flippers) and winter accessories

Crayons or colored pencils

Glue stick

Tape

Ice cube trays or silicone candy molds

Water

Short popsicle sticks (often called “craft sticks” or “mini popsicle sticks”)

Baking sheet (or sensory bin)

Optional: Aluminum foil

Optional: Laminator & pouches

Optional alternative laminate ideas:

• Self-adhesive laminating sheets (no machine needed)
• Clear packaging tape (for quick waterproofing)
• Clear sheet protectors cut to size

How to Make Your Ice Skating Penguins

Prep the Ice Skates

• Fill ice cube trays or silicone molds with water.
• Cover the top with foil.
• Carefully poke one mini craft stick into each cube, using foil as support to keep them upright.
• Tip: Slitting the foil with a knife helps the popsicle sticks slide right in.
• Freeze until solid.

Make the Penguins

• Print the penguin templates.
• Color the penguins using crayons or colored pencils.
• Cut out the penguins and ice skate accessories.
• Use glue to attach the wings, skates, and any details.
• Optional: Laminate your penguins to protect them from water and make them reusable.

Build the Ice Rink

• Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil (or use a sensory bin/table).
• Pop out the ice cubes once frozen.

Attach & Play

• Tape each penguin to the popsicle stick handle of an ice cube.
• Place the ice cubes on your foil sheet.
• Slide them around to “ice skate” your penguins!

Expert Tips

Laminating is worth it if you plan to reuse these year after year.

Name the penguins for extra engagement (“Snowy,” “Chilly,” “Ice Cap,” etc).

Variations

• Holiday Penguins: Add tiny paper scarves or hats.
• Arctic Friends: Swap penguins for polar bears or seals.
• Science Twist: Talk about why ice melts and test surfaces (foil vs plastic vs metal).
• Color Mixing: Add food coloring to water before freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do this without laminating?

Yes! Use self-laminating sheets, clear packing tape, or slip the penguins into trimmed sheet protectors.

Are mini popsicle sticks necessary?

Regular popsicle sticks work, but mini sticks are easier for little hands and balance better.

Does a sensory bin work better than a baking sheet?

Sensory bins are great for containing water once melting begins, but a baking sheet lined with foil works perfectly and is accessible for most people.

How long does the ice last?

Typically 10–20 minutes indoors depending on room temperature, which is perfect for a single play session.

Prep Time & Active Time

• Prep Time: 10–15 minutes (not including freezing time)
• Active Crafting Time: 20–30 minutes
• Sensory Play Time: 10–20 minutes (depending on melting)