Lately, my son has been really into asking our Google device what different sounds make, and one of his favorites is, “Hey Google, what does a rocket sound like?” He loves hearing the blast-off noise and pretending he’s zooming through space. To build on that excitement, I decided to try out a fun rocket-themed activity that both my toddler and baby could enjoy together. It turned out to be a super simple and entertaining project that brought lots of laughs as we launched our little rockets across the room.
This activity is a breeze to set up with just a few basic supplies you probably already have lying around. It’s one of those go-to projects that’s perfect for engaging little ones when you need something fun and creative without a lot of prep. Plus, it encourages a bit of imaginative play as kids pretend to blast off into outer space.
Both of my kids had a great time with this, and it was fun seeing who could make their rocket fly the farthest. Whether you’re looking for a quick activity to break up the day or something to keep the kids entertained for a while, this rocket ship project is sure to be a hit!
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
Materials Needed
- Rocket ship outline (scroll down for the FREE download!)
- Markers, crayons, or something to color the rockets with
- Straws (We used cheap plastic straws that worked perfectly)
- Tape
- Scissors
How to Make Straw Rocket Ships
- Download the FREE rocket ship outlines – Scroll down for the free download.
2. Color and decorate your rockets
Let your kids use markers, crayons, or whatever you have on hand to get creative. Don’t use anything too heavy to decorate the rocket that might weigh it down and prevent it from flying as far!
3. Cut out the rockets – Carefully cut out the rocket shapes.
4. Cut out a rectangle piece of paper – Use the scrap paper from cutting the rockets or any other paper you have laying around. It should be about 1 inch wide and 2-3 inches long, just big enough to wrap around your finger. It doesn’t have to be exact, just eyeball it!
5. Roll the paper into a loop – Wrap the paper around your finger to create a small loop, then tape it closed. Keep the loop at least wide enough to fit a straw inside. The size of your pointer finger will be perfect.
6. Fold the top of the loop
Once the loop is taped, fold the top over and tape it shut to form a small pocket.
7. Tape the loop onto the back of your rocket
This will be where the straw fits in.
8. Insert the straw and blow – Bend the straw upwards, place it into the pocket on the back of the rocket, and blow into the straw to send the rocket flying!
If you liked this activity, you will love our balloon rocket activity!
Fun Games to Play with the Rocket Ships
Rocket Race – Have a race with your kids! See whose rocket can go the furthest or make it to a designated “landing zone” first. You can mark spots on the floor with tape and assign points for each zone.
Rocket Countdown – Make the activity even more exciting by counting down like a real rocket launch. Start at 5, and when you reach 1, everyone launches their rockets at the same time!
Rocket Obstacle Course – Set up an obstacle course with different challenges like aiming the rocket under a chair, through a hoop, or across a certain distance. See who can complete the course the fastest!
Catch the Rocket – Have one person blow the rocket while the other person tries to catch it mid-air. It’s a great way to develop coordination and have some fun together!
How to get your FREE Rocket Ship Outline
To get your FREE rocket ship outline, all you need to do is enter your email in the form below! Once you submit your email, the download instructions will be sent straight to your inbox. It’s quick and easy, and you’ll be able to print the outline and start this fun activity with your kids right away!
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