Fall Books and Activities For Kids

Celebrate the beauty of autumn with these fall crafts and activities based on children’s books! From colorful leaf crafts and woodland animal creations to hands-on sensory bins and exciting science experiments, these book-inspired activities bring favorite fall stories to life. Pair your favorite autumn picture books with simple, engaging projects that encourage creativity, build fine motor skills, and help children explore the changing seasons.

The Leaf Thief Squirrel Paper Bag Craft

Inspired by The Leaf Thief by Alice Hemming, this Squirrel Paper Bag Craft brings the curious squirrel from the story to life. Children can create their own squirrel using a paper bag and construction paper while talking about falling leaves, changing seasons, and the fun of discovering what happens in autumn.

The Little Guys Handprint Craft

Inspired by The Little Guys by Vera Brosgol, this handprint craft gives children a creative way to connect with the story’s tiny forest characters. It’s a fun keepsake that encourages creativity while providing an opportunity to talk about friendship and teamwork.

The Little Yellow Leaf Handprint Craft

Inspired by The Little Yellow Leaf by Carin Berger, this handprint craft features a yellow leaf and a red leaf, representing the two leaves who find friendship in the story. Children can use paint and construction paper to create their own colorful autumn tree.

The Leaf Man Sensory Tray

This sensory tray invites children to explore autumn leaves and create their own imaginative leaf designs. As they arrange natural materials into people, animals, and other shapes, children practice creativity, observation, and storytelling.

We’re Going On A Leaf Hunt Leaf Investigation Activity

Inspired by We’re Going on a Leaf Hunt by Steve Metzger, this Leaf Investigation Activity encourages children to explore the colorful leaves they discover on their own leaf hunt. Children can examine different leaves, compare their colors, shapes, and textures, and learn about the changes that happen during autumn while building observation and early science skills.

Bear Says Thanks Paper Bag Craft

Inspired by Bear Says Thanks by Karma Wilson, this paper bag bear craft is a fun way to celebrate a story about friendship, sharing, and gratitude. Children can create their own bear while discussing the importance of thanking others and showing kindness.

Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn Walking Water Experiment

Inspired by Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn by Kenard Pak, this walking water experiment brings the changing colors of autumn to life. Children use colored water and paper towels to observe how water travels between cups while exploring capillary action, color mixing, and scientific predictions.

Have You Seen My Acorn Sensory Bin

Inspired by the book Have You Seen My Acorn?, this sensory bin invites children to join a squirrel on a search for his missing acorn. Little learners can explore the bin, search for hidden acorns, and practice fine motor skills while bringing the story to life through hands-on play.