Inspiration for how to make a glider with paper
I remember watching Sid the Science Kid cartoon with my son. We watched the “Sid Wings It” episode where he and his classmates learned how people were exposed to flying by observing birds in nature. They also explored a special exhibit showcasing gliders, flying contraptions, and jet planes at the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum.
At the end of this episode, Sid and his father make a paper airplane. After watching this, my son wanted to make one. We got one sheet of paper and started making a paper airplane like the one in the cartoon. My son flew this airplane and had a blast.
Curiosity is growing
Pretty soon, he started getting curious about other paper airplanes we could make that would fly higher, faster, and longer. We watched some YouTube videos but couldn’t find exactly what we were looking for.
About four months later, I found a book at the library called, Show-How Guides: Paper Airplanes: The 11 Essential Planes Everyone Should Know! by Keith Zoo. Once I showed my son the book, he gathered notebook paper and started making paper airplanes. We love this book because it shows each airplane’s airtime, acrobatics, uniqueness, speed, and distance.
Airplane with Air time
Making paper airplanes is a fun DIY STEM project where you can discuss with kids the scientific law of aerodynamics. The law has three basic components: thrust, which moves the plane forward, draw, which holds it back, and lift which keeps it airborne.
My son wanted to share his favorite airplane, which is the glider, with you. He loves this paper airplane because it loops and has a lot of air time. Plus it is easy to make and only requires one item, which is paper.
How to Make a Glider with Paper

In the video below, my son will show you how to make the glider.
This video comes from my son’s YouTube Channel called, Corban’s Fun Learning Adventures. This channel has science experiments, DIY projects and learning games for kids. Please subscribe and share if you like what you see.
Enjoy flying this airplane!
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My kiddo has just been introduced to paper airplanes. This is such an simple activity that can offer hours of funs. Thanks for sharing!
No problem. I am glad you like it.
I so needed this! My nephews always ask for airplanes and I am the worst at making them!
Oh good! I am glad this is helpful!
This is brilliant! Defo trying this with my nephew later today 😉
Wonderful! I hope you enjoy this activity with your nephew!
I found an old video from 30 years ago with my son and his cousin playing with paper airplanes. So fun!
Wow 30 years ago. That’s great! Paper airplanes are fun.