We're making cardboard clapper trappers! These nifty homemade toys transform potential energy into kinetic energy and by making loud snapping sounds when released.
How to Make Clapper Trapper Toys
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Note: Today's kid craft came from the awesome book: Toys and Play with Everyday Materials. We got a copy from our library and loved it. Inside there are a ton of directions for fun homemade toys and scientific explanations as to why things work. Not only will kids enjoy making and playing with the toys, but they will also learn something too.
How to Make a Clapper Trapper Toy
1. Cut out two 1.5" squares out of cereal box cardboard.
(But why stop at two? Cut out more if you want to make more clapper trappers.)
2. Cut out two small slits on opposite sides of your cardboard squares. They should be in the middle of each side.
3. Grab a small rubber band (rainbow loom bands work out perfectly for this part!) and use it to wrap around your two cardboard squares. Secure the rubber band in place by sliding it into your slits.
(If the slits are too small, you can always cut out small triangles instead. This will make it easier to slip the rubber bands in.)
You've made yourself a clapper trapper toy! Now let's set it up!
How to make Your Clapper Trapper Toy Snap
1. Open up the two pieces of cardboard.We're creating some potential energy here when we stretch the rubber bands.
2. Keep stretching the rubber bands all the way by pulling the cardboard pieces together. Now let go!
(See the movie at the top of my post to see these toys in action.)
:) I hope you enjoyed making this craft with your kids too! And if you're looking for other easy, cheap, and low-prep STEAM ideas for elementary-aged kids, click here.
Happy creating + connecting, friends!