[For Elementary School Kids] Handmade Toy Craft Ideas
There are plenty of opportunities to make handmade toys, like indoor play items or independent research projects.
Some of you might be thinking, “Isn’t there a toy I can make with things I already have at home?”
In this article, we’ve compiled a bunch of handmade toy ideas for elementary school children.
These are not only fun to make, but also fun to play with once they’re finished.
It’s also great to incorporate your favorite characters or designs when making them.
Be sure to check out these handmade toy ideas that you can enjoy with family and friends.
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[For Elementary School Students] Handmade Toy Craft Ideas (41–50)
An exceedingly simple chopstick gun
A simple rubber band gun made from disposable chopsticks and rubber bands is a craft project that both kids and adults can get hooked on.
However, the one introduced here is surprisingly authentic, with steps that even involve using a utility knife and a screwdriver.
Kids should make it together with an adult and enjoy the process.
You can also make targets easily with chopsticks, so once you’re done, you can have fun playing a target-shooting game! It’s simple, but you can customize it with a bit of creativity, letting you experience the fun of making things.
Be sure to build and play together—kids and adults alike—and enjoy a great time!
[For Elementary School Students] Handmade Toy Craft Ideas (51–60)
Paper cup fireworks
Fireworks burst out of a paper cup! How about enjoying a bright, summery craft? First, prepare some copy paper and draw any patterns you like.
Crayons or pens with vivid colors are recommended.
Next, cut the paper in half, accordion-fold each piece, then fold them in half again.
Make a hole in the center of the bottom of a paper cup and insert a chopstick.
Finally, attach the accordion-folded pieces to both sides of the chopstick, and fix their ends to both sides of the cup to finish.
You’ll love the satisfying pop as the fireworks open! It’s easy to make, so give it a try.
Mini crane game with straws
@ranmaru_shien Mini Crane Game#HandmadeToysworkChildcareEducational# developmental support (ryōiku)#AtHomePlay
♬ Super Mario Bros Main Theme – Geek Music
This is an idea for enjoying a crane game easily using just simple materials.
Bend the accordion section of a straw and secure it firmly with tape to create the arm.
Wrap construction paper around it to add strength, and cut the tip with scissors, spreading it out like petals.
This serves as the crane’s claw, allowing you to grab small prizes.
For operation, lighter materials are easier to handle, so colorful pom-poms or small beads are recommended.
Because the straw is easy to move, even children can operate it without using too much force.
It’s a fun idea that combines the ease of crafting with playability.
Water Play Crane Game
@silk_haru3mama Playing a crane game while splashing around#HandmadeToys#Summer VacationSummer Vacation Craftwork#AtHomePlay
Idol – YOASOBI
A crane game made with plastic cups for water play is a craft that really shines in the summer.
Cut slits into the bottom of a plastic cup, fold the sections back, and make a small hole in the center.
Thread a straw through the hole and secure it firmly with a hot glue gun so it moves smoothly—even underwater.
Float the finished crane on the water and use small toys or beads instead of prizes, and you can play a scooping game.
The unique sensation of operating it in water is fun, and kids will get absorbed in the challenge.
It’s a cooling, summertime-perfect idea for play.
A crane game where you can grab capsules
A capsule-compatible claw machine made from cardboard offers an impressive look and engaging controls.
Cut the main body parts from cardboard, temporarily hold them in place with tape, then assemble.
Making use of the corrugated structure increases strength and stability.
Thread yarn through the claw section for opening and closing, and set up additional yarn to support the body so it can be operated.
To prevent the claw from opening too wide, use items like batteries as stoppers for a more realistic motion.
Reinforce the claw so it can grip capsules without dropping them, and add eye designs to give the appearance a sharper finish.
Small adjustments to the details change the difficulty, making this a three-dimensional idea that expands the fun of play.
Strikeout for kids
@nami_aidakko Voice LibraryStrikeoutCardboard artShooting GalleryHashtag-like
♫ Dear Boy — Hump Back
This is a cardboard craft project for a strikeout game that’s super popular at festivals! First, choose a piece of cardboard sized to fit the children.
Cut out a 3×3 grid, then decorate the cut-out pieces.
Finally, adjust the cut-outs so they fit nicely into the frame.
It’s easy to make, and since it’s cardboard, it’s also great for use as a shooting game target! Share ideas, get creative, and have fun together—kids and adults alike!
Target shooting game with an air cannon
Fun for kids and adults alike! This is a shooting game you can enjoy indoors.
Punch a hole in an empty snack box, tie off a balloon’s mouth, and cut off the tip.
Stretch the cut balloon over the hole in the box, then put the original lid back on and secure it with vinyl tape.
Decorate the outside with origami paper, and your air cannon is complete! For targets, you can cut cardboard into any shapes you like and start playing right away, just like a shooting gallery.
It’s easy fun for both kids and adults, so try customizing it for different events and enjoy!