STEM

Inside Planet Earth


A hands-on sensory activity where children use playdough to explore the different layers of Earth - from the crust we walk on to the hot core deep inside our planet.

Perfect for ages 6yrs+ | Supervision recommended | Great for group or individual play

Materials Needed:

  • Play Sense playdough (3–4 colours for Earth’s layers)
  • Earth layers printable or template
  • Plastic knife or play tool for cutting Earth open
  • Curiosity and imagination
@learning.with.athena
@learning.with.athena

How to Play:

  1. Choose different colours of playdough to represent Earth’s layers — crust, mantle, outer core and inner core.
  2. Roll and flatten each colour, then layer them on top of one another to build your Earth from the inside out.
  3. Squish and shape the layers into a large ball to create your planet Earth.
  4. Carefully cut your Earth in half using a play tool or plastic knife to reveal the layers hidden inside.
  5. Explore and talk about what each layer does — which part is hot, rocky, solid or molten.
  6. Compare the different colours, textures and thickness of each layer as you investigate your Earth model together.

Learning Tips

There’s no perfect way to create your Earth — focus on exploring and discovering together.


Introduce simple science words like crust, mantle, outer core and inner core through conversation.

For younger children, focus on rolling, layering and sensory exploration.

For older children, discuss volcanoes, tectonic plates, earthquakes and what happens deep inside the Earth.

Extend the learning by comparing Earth to other planets in our solar system.

Why This Activity Rocks:

Develops Fine Motor Control – Rolling, flattening, layering and cutting the playdough strengthens hand muscles, coordination and control needed for writing and everyday tasks.

Introduces Early STEM Learning – Exploring Earth’s layers helps children build an early understanding of science concepts like geology, planets and how the Earth is structured.

Encourages Curiosity & Investigation – Children naturally explore, ask questions and discover how different layers work together beneath the Earth’s surface.

Builds Language & Vocabulary Skills – Talking about the crust, mantle, outer core and inner core introduces new scientific words in a hands-on, meaningful way.

Supports Problem Solving & Thinking – Layering the dough and working out how to build Earth from the inside out encourages planning, sequencing and critical thinking.

Boosts Confidence & Exploration – Cutting open their Earth model to reveal the hidden layers creates excitement, discovery and a sense of achievement.

Link to Early Learning Framework:

✓ Learning Through Play
✓ Physical Development
✓ Cognitive Development
✓ STEM Exploration
✓ Language & Communication
✓ Creativity & Imagination

Perfect for small groups or individual exploration

Download your FREE Earth Layers Worksheets