Paper Airplanes

Summary: Incorporate crafts and games into one with a paper airplane competition.


  • Paper
  • Coloring supplies
  • Printed-out instructions (optional)


  1. Hand out pieces of paper to everyone. Students can have multiple pieces if they want to make multiple “models.”
  2. Hand out decorating supplies and have students make and decorate their planes. For younger students, consider printing out instructions to guide their airplane making process.
  3. Once everyone is done decorating, allow time for kids to practice and perfect their designs.
  4. Try having a paper airplane competition to see who can throw their plane the farthest.

Debrief Questions:

  • Did you try to improve your plane? Did your improvements work?
  • Did you like any of your classmates’ designs? What did you like about them?

Grade Level: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th & Up

Messiness Level: Not so Messy

Activity Length: Medium (15-30 minutes)