This DIY Party Popper activity is perfect for kids to learn about physics, engineering, and creativity while crafting something festive.
Materials Needed
- Toilet paper roll (or any cardboard tube)
- Balloon
- Tape (or glue)
- Scissors
- Construction paper or wrapping paper
- Markers, stickers, or other decorations
- Confetti (store-bought or homemade using tissue paper or scrap paper)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Tube:
- Take an empty toilet paper roll and cover it with festive construction or wrapping paper.
- Secure the paper with tape or glue.
- Decorate the Tube:
- Let kids decorate the covered roll using markers, stickers, or holiday-themed embellishments.
- Encourage creativity—this is their party popper!
- Attach the Balloon:
- Tie a knot at the end of a balloon.
- Cut off the rounded top of the balloon, leaving the tied end intact.
- Stretch the open end of the balloon over one side of the tube.
- Secure it tightly with tape to ensure it doesn’t slip off.
- Load the Confetti:
- Fill the open end of the tube with a small amount of confetti.
- Don’t overfill—it should be enough for a satisfying “pop!”
- Time to Celebrate:
- Hold the tube in one hand and pull back the knotted end of the balloon with the other.
- Let go to launch the confetti into the air!
STEM Learning Points
- Physics: Explore the concepts of potential and kinetic energy as kids pull and release the balloon.
- Engineering: Kids learn problem-solving and construction skills while assembling their popper.
- Creativity: Encourage kids to design unique, personalized poppers using different decorations.
Conclusion
This DIY Party Popper project is a perfect way to combine holiday fun with STEM learning! Kids will enjoy creating and decorating their poppers while exploring basic physics concepts like energy transfer. Plus, it’s a delightful activity that brings families together during the festive season. Once the poppers are ready, the burst of confetti will add joy to your celebrations, making this project both educational and entertaining.
Compiled & Created by the STEAMULATION Lab Canada Team
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