How to Build Kids' Kites

A kite is a simple craft for children.

Flying a kite helps children get outdoors and burn calories. Encourage children to make their own kites before you head outdoors. CanadianLiving.com suggests that kite-making is an activity that helps parents and children bond. Kids will also feel a sense of accomplishment in completing the task. Making a kite at home also helps parents with several children to save money on purchasing expensive kites. Children of any age can help by decorating, gluing stickers and choosing colors. Enjoy a day at the park with your children, flying their homemade kites.

Things You'll Need

• Colored construction paper
• 8-inch skewer sticks
• Adhesive tape
• Roll of plastic ribbon

Instructions

1. Choose a desired color of 8 1/2 x 11 construction paper. Construction paper should be thick enough to withstand wind. Allow children to choose the color they desire. Encourage children to place stickers on the construction paper or draw on it to their liking. It is important to get children involved in the kite-making process. Crayons, markers and spray paint also work to make creative designs on the kite. Supervise children when using spray paint. Avoid adding decorations that add weight to the paper. Once the children finish decorating, fold the construction paper in half vertically.

2. Fold the left corner of the construction paper diagonally, reaching three-fourths of the way to the other end of the rectangle. Use a piece of tape to hold this crease in place.

3. Open the paper slightly to create the shape of a kite. The construction paper should have a triangular shape. Lay the paper down flat to continue making the kite.

4. Glue an 8-inch skewer stick horizontally from the left to right corner at the top of the kite. Make sure the stick is attached firmly, because this will hold the form of the kite as it flies.

5. Cut 10 feet or more of plastic ribbon. Allow the child to choose his desired ribbon color. Tape the ribbon to the bottom of the kite.

6. Take the kite into an open field. You may need to tie the ribbon around the wrist of small children so they do not lose the kite. It may take several attempts to launch the kite, so encourage children to be patient.

Tips & Warnings

• It is best to fly a kite on a windy day. Make sure the weather is clear and you have a large open space.

• Supervise children when flying kites so it doesn't fly away. Stay away from buildings, trees and power lines.

References

• Canadian Living: How to make a kite
• All Free Crafts: 20 Kites in 20 Minutes