Oreo Moon Phases

This Oreo Moon phases activity is such a fun way for kids to learn about the Moon phases! All you need are Oreos and our free printable to do this activity. Kids will love learning about the phases of the Moon with this simple activity.

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Oreo Moon Phases Activity

This science activity is a unique and fun way for kids to learn about the different phases of the Moon.

Not only will kids love learning about the phases of the Moon in this fun and interactive activity, but they can enjoy a fun treat when it’s over!

Watch the Video Tutorial!

Explanation of the Phases

Did you know that the phases of the Moon change as it orbits the Earth? The Sun is reflected on the surface of the Moon. The position of the Moon changes how much of the Moon we can see from Earth.

The first phase of the Moon is called a “New Moon”. This is where we can’t see any of the moon lit up by the sun. As the Moon orbits the earth, more and more of it is lit up by the sun and visible to us on Earth. A “Full Moon” happens when the Earth is located between the Sun and Moon. This is when the entire side of the Moon that is visible is lit up by the sun. As the Moon continues around Earth, we are able to see less and less of it until it becomes a “New Moon” again. The Moon goes through one full cycle each month. It takes 29.5 days to complete a cycle.

These are the phases of the Moon, in order:

1. New Moon
2. Waxing Crescent
3. First Quarter
4. Waxing Gibbous
5. Full Moon
6. Waning Gibbous
7. Last Quarter
8. Waning Crescent

There are two versions of the printable.

One with the phases listed and one where kids can fill in the phases themselves:

Supplies

• Oreo cookies (or similar cookie type)

• Plastic knife or butter knife (adults to assist)

• Free Printable worksheets – get the free printables at the bottom of the post!

Note: you can also use self-laminating sheets to laminate the worksheets and re-use them!

How to Do an Oreo Moon Phase Activity

1. Print out the free printable Oreo Moon Phase sheets on white paper or cardstock.

You can even laminate the sheets to re-use them.

2. Carefully remove the tops of 8 Oreos.

3. Use a plastic knife to carve away the white icing to resemble each phase of the moon.

You’ll also need a plain Oreo with no filling for the New Moon and an Oreo half with all of it’s filling for the full moon!

4. Place the carved Oreo halves on their corresponding spots on the printable.

This is a fun food science activity for kids – and they will love eating all of the Oreos when you are done too!

Get the Free Printable Templates