Funny Handcraft Ideas for Kids | DIY Relaxing Paper Toys Funny Handcraft Ideas for Kids: DIY Relaxing Paper Toys

Crafting with kids is a fantastic way to foster creativity, enhance fine motor skills, and provide hours of entertainment. Paper toys, in particular, are a wonderful medium because they are easy to make, inexpensive, and can be as simple or complex as you want. Here are some funny and relaxing DIY paper toy ideas that kids will love making and playing with.

#### **1. Paper Finger Puppets**
Finger puppets are a great way to spark imaginative play. Kids can create characters and put on their own puppet shows.
- **Materials* Colored paper, scissors, glue, markers
- **Steps*
1. Cut small rectangles of paper that will wrap around a finger.
2. Draw and cut out characters like animals, superheroes, or cartoon figures.
3. Glue the characters onto the paper rectangles.
4. Wrap the rectangle around a finger and secure it with glue or tape.

#### **2. Paper Spinners**
Paper spinners are simple yet mesmerizing toys that kids can make and spin for hours of fun.
- **Materials* Cardstock, scissors, markers, a pencil, string
- **Steps*
1. Cut two circles from cardstock.
2. Decorate the circles with colorful patterns and designs.
3. Glue the circles together with a piece of string in the middle.
4. Twist the string tightly and pull to make the spinner whirl.

#### **3. Paper Fortune Tellers**
Also known as cootie catchers, these classic paper toys can be customized with funny fortunes or silly tasks.
- **Materials* Paper, markers
- **Steps*
1. Fold a square piece of paper into a fortune teller shape.
2. Write numbers and fortunes inside each flap.
3. Decorate the outside with colors and designs.
4. Use it to play with friends by asking them to pick a number and revealing their fortune.

#### **4. Paper Planes**
Paper planes are timeless and can be made in various styles, from simple darts to complex gliders.
- **Materials* Paper, markers
- **Steps*
1. Fold a sheet of paper into a plane shape.
2. Decorate the plane with colors and patterns.
3. Experiment with different folding techniques to see which flies the best.

#### **5. Paper Chain Caterpillars**
These cute and colorful caterpillars are easy to make and can be used as decorations or toys.
- **Materials* Colored paper, glue, googly eyes, markers
- **Steps*
1. Cut strips of colored paper.
2. Create paper chains by looping and gluing the strips together.
3. Add a face to one end of the chain with googly eyes and markers.
4. Draw or cut out antennae and attach them to the head.

#### **6. Paper Pop-Up Cards**
Pop-up cards are a fun way to combine art and engineering, creating surprising 3D effects.
- **Materials* Cardstock, scissors, glue, markers
- **Steps*
1. Fold a piece of cardstock in half to create the card base.
2. Cut and fold small tabs inside the card to create pop-up platforms.
3. Decorate the card with drawings and cutouts that will pop up when opened.
4. Add a message or scene to complete the card.

#### **7. Paper Pinwheels**
Pinwheels are charming toys that spin when blown on or held in the wind.
- **Materials* Colored paper, push pin, pencil with an eraser, scissors
- **Steps*
1. Cut a square piece of paper and decorate it.
2. Cut from each corner toward the center, stopping about halfway.
3. Fold every other corner piece toward the center and secure them with a push pin.
4. Attach the pinwheel to the pencil’s eraser with the push pin.

#### **8. Paper Hats**
Kids can create and decorate their own hats for dress-up and imaginative play.
- **Materials* Large sheets of paper, markers, stickers, tape
- **Steps*
1. Fold and tape a large sheet of paper into a hat shape (e.g., pirate hat, crown).
2. Decorate the hat with markers, stickers, and other embellishments.
3. Wear the hat and let the fun begin!

#### **9. Paper Jumping Frogs**
These playful frogs can be pressed down to jump and provide endless entertainment.
- **Materials* Colored paper, markers
- **Steps*
1. Fold a square piece of paper into a frog shape.
2. Decorate the frog with eyes and other details.
3. Press down on the frog’s back to make it jump.

#### **10. Paper Boats**
Kids can make and float paper boats in a sink, bathtub, or puddle.
- **Materials* Paper, markers
- **Steps*
1. Fold a sheet of paper into a boat shape.
2. Decorate the boat with colors and patterns.
3. Float the boat and see how long it stays afloat.

#### **Tips for Successful Paper Crafting with Kids*

- **Supervise Younger Children* Ensure safety, especially when using scissors and glue.
- **Encourage Creativity* Let kids choose colors and designs to make each project their own.
- **Keep It Fun* Focus on the enjoyment of crafting rather than perfection.
- **Clean Up Together* Make cleaning up part of the activity to teach responsibility.

#### **Conclusion**

DIY paper toys are a fantastic way to engage kids in creative, hands-on activities. These funny and relaxing handcraft ideas provide endless opportunities for imagination and play, while also offering educational benefits. Gather your supplies and enjoy crafting these delightful paper toys with the kids in your life.

Happy crafting!