Creative Autumn Art Projects for Kids

Autumn (or Fall, if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere) is a beautiful season for creativity. In Australia, autumn runs from March to May, while in countries like the USA and UK, it spans September to November. No matter where you live, this season brings an explosion of gold, red, and orange hues that inspire endless art opportunities.

The changes in nature — falling leaves, crisp air, and longer shadows — invite kids to explore, observe, and create. Below are some of our favourite autumn art activities for kids that you can do at home, in the classroom, or outdoors.

1. Study the Science of Leaves

As the weather cools and sunlight fades, some trees go dormant and stop producing chlorophyll, the pigment that gives leaves their green colour. What’s left behind are the vivid reds, yellows, and oranges — perfect for exploring colour and natural changes with your children.

Head outside and compare the structures of deciduous (those that lose their leaves) and evergreen trees. Look for the blade, midrib, and veins. Ask your children to gather leaves of different sizes, colours, and textures. These explorations set the stage for creative projects and connect to science and art learning.

2. Leaf Rubbings with Autumn Colours

Leaf rubbing art is a timeless activity that reveals the hidden textures of leaves. Choose supple leaves with clear vein patterns (avoid dry or curled ones).

• Place the leaf under a sheet of paper

• Use autumn-coloured crayons (remove the wrappers)

• Gently rub the side of the crayon over the leaf

• Try random placements or arrange your leaves in a design or pattern

This simple project teaches texture, colour theory, and observation — all while developing fine motor skills.

3. Create Nature Collage Pictures

Some leaves naturally resemble boats, trees, animals, or people. Encourage your children to glue leaves and garden items (like twigs, flowers, or seed pods) into pictures or 3D dioramas.

This is a great way to:

• Develop visual storytelling

• Practice composition and layering

• Use natural materials in art

Ask: Can this leaf be a hedgehog’s back? Do these twigs look like arms or legs?

4. Craft Autumn Animal Collages

Cut out an animal shape using cardboard or thick paper (porcupines, echidnas, foxes, or owls work well), then paste autumn leaves to create fur, feathers, or scales.

You could also:

• Make masks representing animals with seasonal features

• Use paper plates as a sturdy base for younger children

• Experiment with texture and layering for expressive results

This activity encourages creative interpretation and imaginative play.

5. Painting Autumn Scenes

Autumn’s colours are ideal for painting. Use warm reds, oranges, and yellows to explore seasonal landscapes.

Some painting ideas:

• Trees against sunrise or sunset skies

• Leaves blowing in the wind

• Tunnels of trees seen from the car

• Piles of leaves swirling like confetti

Ask children to mix red and yellow paint to discover how orange is created — a perfect way to link art with science.

Bonus: Use Artventure Anywhere

With Artventure’s step-by-step online art lessons, all you need is:

• A tablet or laptop

• Basic art supplies (pencils, crayons, paints)

• A table or flat surface — even in the garden or at school

Try our free trial to access creative projects for all seasons. You’ll find art lessons by searching autumn, leaves, wind, seasons, or colour mixing.

Preserve your children's seasonal masterpieces in a display folder or mailing tube, ready to share with friends and family.

Why Autumn Art Matters

Art inspired by the seasons helps children:

• Connect with nature and change

• Observe patterns and colour in the world around them

• Develop creative confidence

So next time you’re kicking up leaves in the yard, bring out the crayons, glue, and imagination — and turn this colourful season into a time of learning and fun.

Happy arty days!

Kirsty x