We are always looking for creative ways to celebrate Earth Day. Why not learn how to make cardboard binoculars for kids? Earth Day is a great day to get outside and go on an adventure...and you want to see everything...you're gonna need those Earth Day toilet paper roll binoculars!
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I remember being a kid and holding a toilet paper roll up to my eye and pretending it was a telescope. I think we have all done this...right? While these binoculars technically don't "work", considering they don't have any lenses, they do help focus a child's eye. And, finding a new use for toilet paper rolls is always fun in my books.
Earth Day Toilet Paper Roll Binoculars
2 toilet paper rolls
green and blue acrylic paint
paintbrush
stapler (or glue gun)
green, blue and white yarn (or ribbon)
If we are going to make Earth Day binoculars they should look like the planet Earth, right? Well, begin by painting the rolls blue. Did you know that 71% of the Earth's surface is covered in water?! This is why we start with ocean blue. Then when the blue has dried it's time to paint on some land masses. We opted to simply use green. But if you have an enthusiastic environmentalist in your house, add some brown (for desserts) and white (for snowcaps), and any other colours you like.
While the rolls are drying it's time to make the string for the binoculars. I chose to braid together 3 colours of yarn. I happened to have some yarn on hand. Use whatever you have available. If you happen to have a blue or green ribbon that would totally work too. Tie a knot at each end. Making sure you have a long enough length of string to slip easily over your child's head and hold the binoculars comfortably.
When the rolls are dry it is time to pull the whole thing together. Start by using the stapler to secure the two tubes together. I used one staple at the top and one at the bottom. You could totally use a glue gun, but a staple is going to be more secure than glue or tape.
Now it's time to attach the strap. Again, use the stapler to secure the strap to the outside of the tubes. you don't want to obstruct the child's view by attaching the strap to the inside of the binoculars. Make sure the staples are secured with the smooth side on the outside.
And, that's it. The binoculars are ready to go. These are the perfect addition to your Earth Day adventures. They are especially fun to bring along when you go on our Earth Day scavenger hunt.
If you are looking to kick your adventure up a notch you could purchase a pair of working binoculars. There are many small binoculars available. We've gone birding with our kids and brought along binoculars. They really make the outing so exciting for kids. Here are a few great pairs...
Binoculars for Kids
Celestron Nature DX 8x42 Binoculars are light and small enough for a child's hand. The magnification is amazing and easy to focus on. Great for young kids to adults.
Occur Compact Binoculars are a less expensive option for kids. They still have great focus and magnification. Light and easy hold with small hands.
Here's a cute nature explorer kit that is truly one step up from the toilet paper roll binoculars. Good magnification, light, and small. The kit also includes a flashlight, magnifying glass, fan, a multi-tool and all carried in a fun metal box. This kit will definitely get the younger kids excited about exploring the outdoors.
Check out all of our awesome Earth Day activities
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