Teaching Expertise

Calling all young crafters looking for a challenge! We here at Teaching Expertise know how important imaginative play is for little ones; it sparks their creativity, enhances their problem-solving skills, and keeps them entertained for hours! And what’s better than crafting toys from everyday materials? That’s why we’re here to guide you through creating a simple helicopter toy. So without further adieu, let’s get this exciting project rolling and get ready to take flight!

Materials Needed

Before we begin, let’s gather our supplies. Don’t worry, you probably have most of them lying around the house. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Toilet paper roll or small cardboard tube
  • Paints or markers for decorating
  • Popsicle stick or cardboard for the main rotor
  • Smaller stick or cardboard for the tail rotor
  • Pipe cleaners or straws for the landing skids
  • Clear plastic cup or transparent material for the cockpit
  • Optional: small toy figure as a pilot. Feel free to add any additional materials for extra decorations and enhancements. 

Learn More: Pink Stripey Socks

Step-by-Step Instructions

A. Body of the helicopter:

  1. To form the body of our helicopter, grab your toilet paper roll or small cardboard tube. 
  2. Now it’s time to get creative! Use paints or markers to decorate the body any way you’d like. Add vibrant colors and cool patterns, or even draw on windows and doors. Let your imagination soar!

B. Rotors:

  1. Take your popsicle stick or cardboard and craft the main rotor. You can paint it, add stickers, or draw designs on it to make it look extra cool.
  2. Attach the main rotor to the top of the helicopter body. Make sure it’s secure and can spin freely.
  3. Next, let’s make the tail rotor. Use a smaller stick or piece of cardboard and decorate it to match the main rotor.
  4. Attach the tail rotor to the tail end of the helicopter. This will help stabilize the flight and add a realistic touch. 

C. Landing Skids:

  1. Get your pipe cleaners or straws and shape them into skids. You can twist and bend them to create the perfect landing gear for your helicopter.
  2. Attach the skids to the bottom of the helicopter body using glue or tape. Make sure they are secure and can support the weight of the helicopter.

D. Cockpit:

  1. Now it’s time to create the cockpit using a clear plastic cup or any other transparent material you have. Decorate it with stickers, draw controls or dials, and make it look like a real helicopter cockpit.
  2. Using glue or tape to secure it in place, attach the cockpit to the body near the front end. 
  3. For an extra touch of fun, add a small toy figure as a pilot inside the cockpit. Now your helicopter is ready for an adventure!

E. Additional Decorations and Details:

If you’d like to add some extra finishing touches to your helicopter, use stickers, markers, or paints to add windows, doors, or any other details you’d like. Get creative and make it unique!

Learn More: Pink Stripey Socks

Play Ideas and Extensions

Now that your helicopter is ready, it’s time to let your imagination take flight! Incorporate the helicopter craft into imaginative play scenarios and craft additional vehicles or objects to complete the playset. Use the helicopter as a prop in storytelling or role-playing activities. 

Safety Considerations

As with any craft project, safety is important. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

A. Supervising children during the crafting process

It’s always a good idea to supervise children while they’re working on any crafting activity. Offer guidance, assist with any cutting or gluing, and ensure they’re using the materials safely.

B. Ensuring age-appropriate materials and tools are used:

Make sure the materials and tools used in the craft are suitable for the age of your children. Avoid sharp objects or small parts that could be a potential choking hazard.

C. Properly securing all parts to avoid choking hazards:

Double-check that all parts of the helicopter are securely attached. Trim any excess materials or tape to avoid any loose pieces that could pose a choking hazard.

Learn More: In the Playroom

Conclusion

Congratulations on creating your very own DIY helicopter! Crafting toys from everyday materials sparks imagination and creativity and provides a sense of accomplishment. We hope that this step-by-step guide has inspired you and your little ones to embark on a fun-filled crafting journey. We’d love to see your helicopter creations and hear about your experiences so please share them with us. Happy flying!