Build your own magical kaleidoscope to explore the world of symmetry and patterns. You'll learn how mirrors reflect light to create beautiful, repeating geometric designs.

Tools

• scissors
• ruler

Materials

• empty toilet paper roll (1)
• mylar cardstock or mirrored paper (4x6 inch piece, 1)
• scrapbook paper or wrapping paper (1 sheet)
• clear plastic from a to-go container (2 circles, cut to fit tube diameter)
• colored beads (handful)
• clear tape (1 roll)
• washi tape (1 roll)
• cardboard tube (1 inch wide piece, 1)

Safety

• Adult supervision required when using scissors to cut plastic and cardboard.
• Small beads are a choking hazard; not recommended for children under 3 years old.
• Adult supervision required for sharp objects.
• Small parts pose a choking hazard. Supervise young children.
• Adult supervision required for children under 8.

Steps

1. Wrap the toilet paper roll in scrapbook paper or wrapping paper and secure it with tape to decorate the outside of your kaleidoscope.
2. Take the 4x6 inch piece of mylar cardstock and fold it twice to create a triangle shape. Secure the edge with a small piece of tape.
3. Slide the mylar triangle into the decorated cardboard tube. Ensure the reflective side is facing inward.
4. Trace the end of the cardboard tube onto your clear plastic and cut out two circles. Trim them slightly so they fit snugly inside the tube.
5. Insert the first plastic circle into the bottom of the tube, pushing it flat against the mylar triangle.
6. Take the 1-inch wide piece of cardboard tube, make a cut down the middle, fold it over about a half inch, and tape it. This creates a rotating mechanism that fits into the end of the tube.
7. Place the second plastic circle on top of the rotating mechanism and secure it with clear tape to create the end cap.
8. Remove the end cap temporarily and drop a handful of colorful beads into the tube on top of the first plastic circle.
9. Attach the end cap back onto the tube and secure the edges with washi tape for a clean finish.
10. Look through the open end of the tube and rotate the end cap to see the colorful patterns change!