Maite Marcelo
paper Mache Hot Air Balloon
During our classroom’s Transportation Study, we embarked on a fun and messy art project that encouraged creativity, collaboration, and hands-on learning. The activity involved creating large, colorful spheres using paper mache—a tactile process that not only engaged our students but also gave them a chance to explore new materials and artistic techniques.
Our goal was to make hot air balloons as part of our deeper exploration of air transportation. Throughout the study, we had been learning about various types of vehicles—cars, trucks, boats, airplanes, and finally, hot air balloons. After reading books, watching videos, and having discussions about how hot air balloons float in the sky, the children became very interested in how something so big and heavy could rise above the ground.
To bring their curiosity to life, we introduced a balloon-based paper mache craft. Each child received a balloon that would act as the base or "basket" for their hot air balloon. We began by tearing strips of newspaper and tissue paper and preparing a glue mixture. The children took turns dipping their paper strips into the glue and layering them carefully onto their balloons. This part of the project helped develop their fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and patience, as they had to wait for layers to dry before painting.
Once the balloons dried and hardened into firm, round shapes, it was time for the most exciting part—painting! Each child was given the freedom to choose their colors, mix paints, and decorate their balloon however they wished. The result was a vibrant collection of hot air balloons, each one unique and expressive. Some children chose bright pinks and yellows, while others opted for darker hues and interesting combinations. We discussed how real hot air balloons are often decorated with patterns, designs, and colors, just like the ones they were creating.
This project also encouraged conversations about movement and science. We talked about how hot air rises and how that helps balloons float. We even tied in simple weather concepts by talking about how the wind helps guide a hot air balloon’s journey. Throughout the process, children were able to ask questions, make observations, and learn new vocabulary words such as “inflate,” “float,” “basket,” and “airborne.”
Beyond the academic goals, this activity fostered a strong sense of pride and ownership. The children were thrilled to see their balloons displayed around the classroom. They loved showing their families during pick-up time and talking about how they made their balloon from start to finish. The messiness of the project didn’t deter them—it added to the excitement and helped them feel like real artists and inventors.
Overall, our hot air balloon paper mache activity was a wonderful extension of our Transportation Study. It provided a multi-sensory, hands-on learning opportunity that combined art, science, and language development. Most importantly, it gave our students the chance to express themselves, work together, and have fun while learning.
