Could your toddler be a future rock star? All you need is a cardboard box and some elastic bands to find out.
An old tissue box already has a hole like a real guitar, so it’s perfect for this musical craft but you can also use any other cardboard box.
Let your child take the lead and strum the guitar while you sing along, or play music from your phone. This toy is great for singing nursery rhymes together.
Take a look at the video below to see how to make this easy toy in five easy steps.
How to make a cardboard box guitar
Preparation time
This craft takes around 15-20 minutes to make.
You will need:
- A cardboard box
- Thick elastic bands
- 2 pencils
- Scissors
- Sticky tape
- Optional) A wrapping paper roll tube
Method
1. Cut a circular hole in the biggest face of your cardboard box. This is the most frustrating step but stick with it, the rest is easy.
2. Stick a pencil to either side of the hole using tape. You could also use lollipop sticks, or anything else that would separate the elastic bands from the box.
3. Wrap elastic bands over the length of the box to make the strings. If you have a few different thicknesses, they'll make different sounds.
4. Cut a hole in the top of the box and push the wrapping paper roll through it to make the handle. If you want, you can roll elastic bands down the tube to make some frets.
5. It's time to get plucking, picking and strumming because your guitar is ready. All that's left to do is to sing along to your favourite song.
Top Tip
If your child is a bit older, there are loads of opportunities for additional language development.
Try viewing images of a guitar online or in a book, and talk about its design. What missing parts of a guitar could your child add to theirs?
Watch out for pinging or snapping elastic bands. Thicker bands are less likely to snap.
Keep and eye on your little one at all times during craft activities and playtime. Remember to keep small and sharp objects out of baby's reach.
