Shadow play

Get creative and learn some science with shadow puppets

Create your own shadow puppets to entertain your toddlers, with items from around the home.

You will need:

• a toilet roll tube
• cling film
• elastic bands
• a permanent marker pen
• a lamp or a torch

What to do

To begin, cut the cling film into smaller pieces, then draw a picture on it using the marker pen. This could be an animal, a vehicle or anything your child is interested in.

Stretch the cling film over the end of the toilet roll and fix it with the elastic band or tape. Then simply shine the torch through the hole to make shadows on the wall!

Learning and development

Making shadow puppets can support learning by developing a greater understanding of cause and effect.

It can also support children’s creativity and communication skills. As the shadows move and play on the wall, toddlers use them to become confident storytellers.