How to Make Juggle Balls
Juggling is a skill in which a person works to keep several objects moving in the air simultaneously. Children of all ages seem to be drawn to the art of juggling. Not only do children receive entertainment by watching jugglers perform, they also benefit from trying their own hands at juggling items. Practicing a hobby like juggling is an excellent way for kids to enhance their focus and hand-eye coordination. Try this project to make inexpensive juggle balls for your child. These beanbag balls are easy to handle and can be customized to the size of the juggler’s hands.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Package of small dried beans
- Plastic bags
- Rubber bands
- Medium-sized balloons
- Scissors
Instructions
-
-
1
Arrange the supplies on a flat workspace. To keep the beans from rolling away, try putting down a towel or cloth on the surface before beginning the project. Be sure to keep the balloons, scissors and small beans out of the reach of young children.
-
2
Fill the plastic bag with the dried beans. Twist a rubber band close to the ball of beans to tightly seal off the bag. Trim off the excess plastic bag hanging past the rubber band. The required amount of beans will vary, depending on the type of beans used and the desired size of the juggle balls. The average size of a juggle ball is between 2 to 3 inches in diameter.
-
-
3
Choose two medium-sized balloons (12 inches in diameter) of the same color. If you are making juggle balls that are smaller than the average beanbag ball, it may be necessary to use smaller balloons to create a tight-fitting casing. Cut off the narrow ends of the balloons and discard them. Only the round portions of the balloons will be needed for this toy project.
-
4
Stretch out the cut end of one balloon. Place the plastic bag inside with the sealed end sticking out of the opening. Gently tuck the end under the edge of the balloon.
-
5
Pull the other matching balloon around the ball of beans, starting from the opposite direction. The plastic bag and beans will be completely enclosed inside the two balloons. To shape the juggle ball, squeeze it with your hands until it is round. Repeat this procedure until your child has the desired amount of balls for juggling.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
For a variation of this toy, try filling juggle balls with sand or dried rice instead of the beans.
Never leave dried beans, plastic bags or pieces of balloons where small children or pets can reach them. They are all choking hazards.
Do not attempt this toy project if you or your child has a latex allergy. Balloons are made from latex and could cause a serious reaction.
Resources
- Photo Credit P.J. Molinario
