With tablets, computers, and cell phones at our disposal, sometimes the mystery of technology is, well, a mystery. As much as we all love our gadgets (thank goodness for YouTube Kids!), it’s refreshing to go back to basics and inspire our kiddos to look beyond a screen for entertainment.
With school out for Summer, now is the perfect time to create a classic communication DIY: tin can telephones!
Tin can telephones are an excellent outdoor activity that utilize science, language, and cooperation amongst peers. They’re also a fantastic way to relay your message from one treehouse to the next! But in case you don’t have a Swiss Family Robinson-esque treehouse in your backyard, no need to worry; our Tree House Hide Away is the next best thing!
To create these colorful tin can telephones, look no further than your recycling bin and basic craft supply stash.
SUPPLIES:
- Tin cans
- Packing tape
- Acrylic paint
- Paintbrush
- Cording
- Pompoms
- Hot glue gun
Also while crafting, we had our little artists put on this Children’s Activity Vest to keep their clothes from getting messy. It worked out great!
- Begin by washing and removing the labels from tin cans. Poke a small hole in the base of each can.
2. Add packing tape to the top of each can to protect little fingers from being cut on the sharp aluminum.
3. Paint the entire can (tape included) in the colors of your choosing.
4. Let dry.
5. Once the cans are dry, thread a long strand of cording through the bases of two cans and double knot on the inside of each to secure in place.
6. Adhere pompom around the entire can for extra flair.
7. Take your tin can telephones to the nearest treehouse and test out their auditory strength!
Cheers to good conversation!