Whether it's a rainy afternoon, a birthday party or simply to stimulate children's imagination, crafts are always a winning activity. And why not make them memorable with a theme that's as fun as it is educational: eyes! Here are a few ideas for simple, fun projects that are perfect for awakening children's curiosity about how sight works.
Funny-eyed animals
Materials:
- Empty toilet paper rolls
- Paint or coloured paper
- Self-adhesive moving eyes
- Glue, scissors, toothpicks, pom-poms
Instructions:
Turn rolls into wacky little animals! Children can paint or cover them with coloured paper, then add eyes (one, two or even ten!) to create a gallery of funny creatures. It's a great opportunity to talk about vision in different animals.
Educational variation: discuss the role of eyes in humans and animals, and the differences in vision (some animals see in the dark or have 360-degree vision!).
Vision superhero masks
Materials:
- Cardboard sheets
- Rubber bands
- Scissors, glue
- Stickers, glitter, crayons
Instructions:
Let the kids create their own superhero mask... eye protectors! Encourage them to invent a name for their character: “Vision-Man”, “Miss Iris”, or “Captain Retina”.
Tip: use this time to discuss the importance of protecting your eyes from the sun with glasses, or by wearing safety goggles during certain activities.
Observation binoculars
Materials:
- Two rolls of paper towel or toilet paper
- String or ribbon
- Coloured paper, stickers, crayons
- Glue, stapler
Instructions:
Assemble two rolls to create a pair of binoculars. Children can decorate them to their liking, then use them to play explorer. Encourage them to go on an “observation hunt” around the house or yard: how many red things can they see? How many round shapes?
Variation: create an observation sheet for them to check off. A great way to stimulate their visual attention.
The home kaleidoscope
Materials:
- A roll of paper
- Small pieces of coloured plastic (cellophane, flat beads)
- Transparent plastic film or acetate foil
- Glue, foil, tape
Instructions:
Make a simple kaleidoscope to show children how light and shapes can create fascinating patterns. It's a great way to discuss visual perception, colours and optical illusions.
A fun and educational activity!
These crafts are more than just hobbies: they're an opportunity to discuss the anatomy of the eye, the importance of looking after your eyesight, and even to introduce scientific concepts in a fun way. And, above all, they offer great moments of creativity for the whole family.
Ready, set, scissors! Start creating!
