This sticky summer suncatcher for toddlers is sure to be a hit. There is just something about small tissue paper squares and sticking fingers to colorful paper that toddlers get a kick out of. Years ago, I had an 18-month-old that couldn’t get enough. As he decorated his sun, I unloaded the dishwasher. It was a simple win that we all needed.
RELATED: Before the summer comes to an end, check out this complete list of suncatchers for kids.
Note about toddlers and sensory play
Toddlers and sensory play may not be an instant attraction. In fact, there are many sensory explorations that a toddler will refuse. (getting wet, touching something slimy, getting dirty) This sensory activity is sticky.
Invite your toddler to explore. If they are interested, you’ve got a win! Keep it going for the days ahead.
If your toddler refuses, keep it out. You may notice them returning after a snack or even trying again in another six months. Toddlers and sensory play interaction will change so much over the years. I have seen many ideas that were a no, turn into a year with maturity and time.
What will your kids DO this summer?
Take the guesswork out of your days with the Summertime Bundle.
- Startup Guide creates your summer routine.
- Activity cards have easy activities.
- The PDF calendar puts your plan in place.
Three Supplies
Just like our toddler toy list, these supplies have many uses. Grab a permanent marker to outline the sun, toss these other two supplies in your cart to set up this easy toddler activity.
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Contact Paper
Use this contact (sticky) paper again when you want to decorate the pumpkin in the fall and go on a sticky nature hunt.
Tissue Paper Squares
Yes! They make tissue paper SQUARES! We love these precut tissue paper squares in assorted colors.
How to set up a sticky summer suncatcher
- Cut: First, cut your contact paper into a large rectangular shape. Remember to hang the contact paper where your toddler can reach. We decorated ours on the tabletop.
- Tape: We want the sticky side of the paper facing us. (Promise, this is the only part you have to think about) Before peeling back the sticky side, tape it to the wall using a painter’s. I tape the four corners.
- Peel: Now it is time to peel back the sticky protective sheet!
- Draw: Draw a simple sun on white paper.
- Slide: Slide the white paper with the simple sun picture back under the contact paper to use as a guide.
- Quick Tip: Look at a favorite summer book for guidance on drawing your sun. This always helps me.
- Invite: Place your tissue paper squares in a small bin next to the sticky paper and invite your child to stick it to the contact paper.
- Cut and Hang: When your child is finished decorating, cut out the sun shape (using the white paper underneath as a guide) and hang it on your window.
When you are finished, you will have a simple DIY reflection of summer fun!
RELATED: Summer activities for kids are great for playing, exploring, and adventuring all summer.
What is my toddler learning?
Exploring a new texture sends new brain signals, expanding on prior knowledge and making connections. As a former Kindergarten teacher, I create activities to introduce fine and gross motor skills that children will build upon over the years.
This easy toddler activity also:
- Helps identify colors (color activities for kids)
- Increases fine motor strength (fine motor skills for kids)
- Explores a new texture
- Inspires touch (sensory play)
- Energizes toddlers to problem solve
Gather your contact paper and tissue paper. This sun catcher will light up your days!
FAQ
No. Hang this activity somewhere you don’t mind having up. Allow your toddler to visit it every day or week to add more tissue paper squares.
There are so many good activities to do in the summer with kids. Simple activities like playing with bubbles and water balloons are guaranteed for a good time. You can also plan for activities requiring more prep work, like going to a baseball game or taking a road trip.
There are many ways to entertain your kids at home during the summer. Encourage messy outdoor play, get creative with summer-themed arts and crafts projects, and let go of busy schedules. Use The Summertime Bundle to help take the guesswork out of your summer schedule with kids.
