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[For First Graders] A Collection of Science Project Ideas Using Everyday Materials

Many first graders struggle with their summer vacation projects and crafts.

It’s completely understandable to feel unsure—“It seems hard,” “What should we make?” In this article, we introduce experiment and craft ideas that kids can enjoy.

From a fascinating experiment with floating vegetables, to postcards made from milk cartons, to colorful aroma stones—there are plenty of fun projects using familiar materials.

Enjoy them together as a parent and child, and make great summer memories!

[For 1st Graders] A Collection of Science Project Ideas Using Everyday Materials (21–30)

Fly! Core Rocket

Here’s how to make an easy “core rocket.” You’ll need a plastic wrap core, a toilet paper core, two rubber bands, and a straw.

First, cut the straw so it’s just a little longer than the opening of the toilet paper core.

Link the two rubber bands by looping them together.

Tape the rubber bands to the straw, then tape the straw onto the plastic wrap core with cellophane tape.

Once it’s set up so the toilet paper core can be launched, you’re done! Decorate the toilet paper core however you like to make your own original rocket.

Have fun and get creative!

Making instruments with a plastic wrap core

No drill or cutter needed: Make instruments with a plastic wrap core [Crafts]
Making instruments with a plastic wrap core

Let’s make a Chilean instrument that sounds like rain using a plastic wrap core! First, mark a bunch of toothpicks at the length of the wrap core so they match its length.

Next, cut the wrap core in a spiral.

Glue the cut toothpicks along the spiral using wood glue or similar adhesive.

Once you return the spiraled core to its original shape, seal the openings with duct tape.

Put in grains like mixed grains, different sizes of rice, beads, or beans.

After you cap it, your Chilean instrument, the rainstick, is complete!

[For 1st Graders] A Collection of Science Project Ideas Using Everyday Materials (31–40)

Making instruments with a plastic wrap core

No drill or cutter needed: Make instruments with a plastic wrap core [Crafts]
Making instruments with a plastic wrap core

Let’s make a Chilean instrument that sounds like rain using a plastic wrap core! First, mark a bunch of toothpicks at the length of the wrap core so they match its length.

Next, cut the wrap core in a spiral.

Glue the cut toothpicks along the spiral using wood glue or similar adhesive.

Once you return the spiraled core to its original shape, seal the openings with duct tape.

Put in grains like mixed grains, different sizes of rice, beads, or beans.

After you cap it, your Chilean instrument, the rainstick, is complete!

Extending Sword

Let's make a sword that extends using a calendar and a wrapping paper core!
Extending Sword

Here’s how to make an extendable sword using a plastic wrap core and paper.

First, cut the core and use construction paper or similar to make the handle.

Next, make the blade with calendar paper.

Cut the paper so it’s as long as possible.

Roll it tightly so it fits inside the plastic wrap core.

Apply cellophane tape to the paper and adjust it so it matches the inside of the core, then stick it in place.

Once it’s the right size, you’re done! You can twist to extend and retract it for play.

Be careful not to pull it out too far.

Let’s make a bow and arrow

How to make a bow and arrow from a single plastic wrap core (Beginner)
Let's make a bow and arrow

Here’s how to make a bow and arrow from a plastic wrap core! First, poke a hole in the center of the core, then make four vertical cuts along the tube.

Bend the cut middle sections inward on both sides.

Next, use rubber bands and twine to make the bow.

Hook a rubber band onto the indented part of the bow to finish it.

Make the arrows using a bamboo skewer and paper.

Since bamboo skewers are light, be sure to wrap them with paper.

Once your arrows are ready, set up a target and try it out.

You might be surprised at how far they fly.

Make sure small children are careful.

How to make a paper popper

How to Make a Paper Pop Gun [Craft Using a Wrap/Core Tube]
How to make a paper popper

Here’s how to make a simple paper pop gun using a plastic wrap core.

First, roll up some paper to make a small ball about 1 cm in diameter.

Cut a balloon around the middle and attach it to the end of the wrap core.

Secure it with a rubber band so it doesn’t come off, and you’re done! Put the paper ball inside, pull the balloon back, and launch the paper ball you made.

You can also decorate the gun however you like or use cardboard to give it a cool gun shape.

Have fun with your own original ideas!

Balloon pistol

Hit-the-target game powered by balloons! Super easy recycled craft: the “Balloon Pistol” #crafts #handmadetoys
Balloon pistol

You can play a fun target game using the power of a balloon! Use decorative pom-poms as the balls.

First, cut a balloon around the middle and attach it to a paper towel roll core.

Secure it with a rubber band so it won’t come off, and it’s ready! Put the decorative balls inside, pull back the balloon, and launch the balls to play.

Make the targets out of milk cartons.

It’s also recommended to decorate the launcher and shape it like a cool pistol using cardboard or any decorations you like.

Have fun with your own original ideas!