It's probably difficult to imagine a time with no television, no movies, and no cartoons. But believe it or not, those times weren't so long ago! What did those kids do when they couldn't watch movies? One of the most popular toys during that time was a great-grandfather of the modern cartoon. This toy was called a "thaumatrope," and in this activity you're going to make (and test) your own thaumatrope to learn about how vision works!
Tips for Parents
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Here's how to talk to your child about it >>>
You can make your own toy called a thaumatrope and learn about how we see things. It was a popular toy when there were no cartoons or movies.
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4 activities you can do with your child now >>>
- Ask your child what they learned about how vision works from the video. - Help your child make their own thaumatrope using the materials shown in the video. - Test your child's thaumatrope by asking them to identify what they see when they spin it. - Encourage your child to come up with their own designs for their thaumatrope and share them with you.
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Pretend play with your child >>>
GAME: Thaumatrope Time! Instructions: 1. Gather materials: index cards, markers, tape, and string. 2. Draw a picture on each side of the index card that will combine when spun (ex: a bird and a cage). 3. Tape the string to the back of the card and hold it between your fingers. 4. Spin the card and see the two images merge into one! 5. Have your child draw their own pictures and challenge them to make the most creative thaumatrope. 6. Discuss how vision works and how the brain processes images.
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1 moral thought for your child inspired by this >>>
Before cartoons and movies, kids enjoyed simple toys like thaumatropes. Learn the value of creativity and imagination by making your own!