Slow and Steady Fun: Paper Plate Snail Craft for Kids
I love taking a story beyond the pages of a book. When children create, imagine, and build something connected to a story, they have the opportunity to revisit the characters, explore the message, and make meaningful memories along the way.
This simple Craft is the perfect companion activity for The Sloth and the Snail. With just a few simple supplies, children can create their very own paper plate snail, helping them to remember the story and creat lasting memories around it.
Whether you are reading at home, adding it to a homeschool unit study, or looking for a fun classroom activity, this snail craft is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces!
About The Sloth and the Snail
Meet the little snail — the second character in the book, but an important one. The snail didn’t do anything at all, and yet, became the perfect companion for the sloth. Reminding kids its not always their actions that have a huge impact, its being their authentic selves.
Perfect for ages 3–8, The Sloth and the Snail is a story that teaches kids to slow down and appreciate whats right in front of them.
This small craft is a fun way for children to connect with the story.
✂️ Supplies Needed:
- 1 small desert size paper plate – any color (optionally 2 plates to make it more 3D)
- printer and paper (to print template pieces)
- scissors
- glue
- googly eyes (1 inch or size desired)
- markers or crayons
- washable paint (optional)
- Stapler (optional but helpful for groups)
How to Make Your
- (if needed paint the plate desired color and allow to dry)
- Carefully cut out the spiral and body pieces of the snail.
- Color the spiral.
- Glue the spiral to the plate.
- Glue head and tail pieces to the bottom of the plate so that the end of the spiral is behind the head of the snail..
- Color the head and tail of the snail (I like yellow)
- Use a marker or crayon and create the mouth if desired
- Attach googly eyes to the ends of the antenae.
- (Optionally to make 3 D create two making sure to use the bottom of the plate and staple the two plates together when done.
Extend the Learning
Crafts are a wonderful way to help children connect with the books they read. After making your snail take some time to talk about the story:
- Can you retell me the story?
- What was your favorite part of the story?
- Did you learn anything?
Get the Free Template
Want to make it even easier? Download our free printable template from the Free Resource Page (find the password in the last newsletter) or get it straight to your inbox by signing up for the newsletter below.
You’ll also get access to my full library of book-based crafts, coloring pages, and more creative fun.
Blessings,
—Shannon L. Mokry
