Apple Basket Activity (Craft with Real Apples)
With September fast approaching I thought it was time to start thinking about school and apple themed crafts for my toddler and preschooler. “Crafts with real apples” are a hit with this age group as apples are easy to hold (and extras make a great snack for later).
This easy apple stamping activity has a few learning opportunities.
Colors
Practicing the different fall colors is a simple way to sneak in some color identification.
Cutting/gluing
Let your preschooler practice their scissor skills by making the basket strips and gluing them down.
Stamping
Holding and grasping skills get a work out in this activity.
Weaving
This may be a new concept for your 3 or 4 year old, but with a little help it’s a fun new way to craft.
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Apple Basket Activity (Craft with Real Apples)
Supplies:
Paint (we used red, green and yellow)
Brown paper bags
Safety Scissors (we like these)
Glue (stick or white will do)
Paper
Cut Apples (slice some vertically and some horizontally)
Paper Plates
Directions:
1.Setup: Place a few generous squirts of paint onto a paper plate. Leave enough room in between colors to allow space for your apple. Set aside.

2. Cutting: Begin by cutting a brown paper lunch bag into thin strips. You can do this ahead or let your toddler/preschooler give it a try.

3. Gluing: On a sheet of paper, offer your preschooler a few strips and encourage them to place them somewhat close together, pointing up. Only glue down the ends – this will make the next step easier.
4. Weaving: Offer your child a few more strips and show them how to weave under, over and under again.

Repeat, weaving a strip over, under and over.
Now, glue the ends of the basket to the paper.
5. Stamping: Dip the apple into the paint, and firmly press it onto the paper, above the area of the woven basket.

Repeat using all of the colors.
Allow to dry and display.

These crafts can be given to teachers or hung up as early fall decor.
For more crafts with real apples check out this pumpkin apple craft.
Related Preschooler Crafts:
How to Make A Clothespin Butterfly (A fun spring beaded craft for preschoolers and up)
Make a Homemade Bird Nest & Food Station (A great family activity!)
