Create racing paper caterpillars in minutes with this easy crafting activity for kids

Want a craft idea that’s super easy and uses supplies that you already have at home?

Try creating a “caterpillar race” – have kids make their own paper caterpillars, then set up a race track where they can see whose caterpillar crawls the fastest. It’s simple: all you need is some paper, a ruler, scissors, a marker and straws.

The race track is where you can really get creative. Use the floor or the dining room table, or let kids use their imaginations to build a race track complete with tunnels, twists and turns using anything from Legos to boxes to toilet paper rolls.

It’s an activity that can be fun and engaging for the whole family – younger children can work on their motor skills while older kids can engineer the track. Then, it’s off to the races!

Watch the how-to video above, and read below for full instructions.

Caterpillar Race

Supplies:

• Paper

• Ruler

• Scissors

• Marker

• Straws

To make the caterpillars:

Step 1: Cut the paper into a 1 by 6 inch strip.

Step 2: Fold the strip in half, then unfold.

Step 3: Fold the right side in to meet the center.

Step 4: Fold the ride side again.

Step 5: Fold the left side in to meet the center.

Step 6: Fold the left side again.

Step 7: Fold it in half.

Step 8: Cut the corners into a curved shape on both sides.

Step 9: Unfold.

Step 10: Draw a smiley face on the first section.

Step 11: On the third section up from the bottom, draw a heart.

Step 12: Repeat the process to make as many caterpillars as you want to race.

For the race:

Set up the race track. Aim a straw at the heart of the caterpillar to navigate it on the race track. The first caterpillar to cross the finish line wins!

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