Pool Noodle Boats (and other things Aquatic)
Objective:
We have always enjoyed creating art with children that uses a material in an interesting way. And who doesn’t love the element of surprise? It’s so fun to see a young artist show off something they have made and the excitement they exude in explaining the process, especially when it’s a piece that begs the question- how did you make that? This project explores using a material designed for one purpose (in this case, a pool noodle) in a very different way.
Materials:
- A pool noodle willing to be repurposed
- Serrated knife (adult needed)
- Assorted paper (construction, cardstock)
- Scissors, glue
- Something to act as a mast (straw, stick, wooden dowel…)
- Multimedia, craft materials- pipe cleaners, googley eyes, fabric, etc…
Directions:
- Cut a slice out of a pool noodle to make about a 2 inch disc (adults only)
- Stick your mast down through the Styrofoam
- Cut a triangular piece of paper or canvas material and glue to the mast to create a sail shape.
- Decorate your boat by adding details- give it a name, cut small circles to make portholes, etc…
Extra- Use pieces of pool noodles to create ocean creatures such as jellyfish or an octopus! How about a coral reef or a school of fish? Bring your boat and undersea kingdom into the bathtub or play with them in the sink- it will float! See pix for more fun ideas.
