Paper plates aren’t just for food!
In fact, we hardly ever eat on them. More than likely, we’re using them for a fun activity or craft.
Like all of these great Paper Plate STEM Projects. They all start with some plain paper plates.

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What Are the Best Paper Plates to Use for Activities?
Luckily, the best paper plates for activities are the least expensive. So, put down the fancy birthday party plates. You’ll want to avoid anything decorative or coated.
The best plates you can get are the plain, white, uncoated paper plates. The uncoated is the important part. The slick coating on coated plates makes it impossible to paint.
Once you’ve got your uncoated paper plates in hand, you’ll want to do some fun activities!
Fun Paper Plate STEM Projects
Here’s a great line-up of STEM (which stands for science, technology, engineering, and math) projects you can do with paper plates.
Some of these great ideas even include an element of art!
Paper Plate STEM Projects
Fun STEM projects for kids that use paper plates. Fun math, science, engineering projects and more!
Paper Plate Layers of the Earth Project
Learn about the layers of the earth and create a paper plate model with this fun activity.
Phases of the Moon Mobile
Use paper plates to create a fun phases of the moon mobile.
Pumpkin Pie Fractions Activity
Learn about fractions with this fun paper plate pie fractions activity
Magnetic Squirrel and Acorn Fall Craft
Create a fun magnetic craft when you make this fall squirrel picture (templates included!)
Life Cycle of a Pumpkin Paper Plate Craft
Explore the life cycle of a pumpkin with this fun paper plate craft.
Simple Paper Plate Learning Activities for Preschoolers and Toddlers
Use paper plates to make a fun set of learning & STEM activities for your little ones.
Pi Day Inspired String Art Activity
Learn all about the number Pi when you create this colorful sting art using a paper plate.
How to Make a Pumpkin Puzzle with a Paper Plate
Use your math skills to create a fun paper plate puzzle.
Autumn Tree Paper Plate Whirligig
Create a fun whirligig STEM craft for autumn.
Rocking Paper Plate Boat - Red Ted Art
Use your paper plates to make a boat that actually rocks.
Octopus Science Experiments for Preschoolers
Use a paper plate to help learn about octopus and how they move.
STEAM / STEM Challenge to go with Giraffes Can't Dance
Use paper plates to help create your own musical instrument with this STEM challenge inspired by Giraffes Can't Dance.
Which of these fun projects do you want to do with your kids?

Where to Find Paper Plates for Activities
You can typically find plain, white, uncoated paper plates in any grocery or big box stores. They typically come in big (but inexpensive) packages, so you’ll definitely be on the lookout for plenty of fun paper plate activities.
If you like to shop on Amazon, here are a few sets of paper plates that will work.
More STEM Activities to Try
Fun STEM Building Toys for Kids
Marshmallow STEM Activities for Kids
Balloon STEM Activities for Kids
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