Want to unleash your inner child and create a fun, nostalgic game? Learn how to make a cootie catcher, also known as a fortune teller, with this easy-to-follow guide. This classic paper game is perfect for parties, classrooms, or just a fun afternoon activity. Let's get started!
What You'll Need:
- A square piece of paper: Any size will work, but larger paper makes it easier to write and fold. Construction paper, origami paper, or even a neatly cut piece of printer paper will do the trick!
- Pen or markers: Choose colors that pop to make your cootie catcher even more visually appealing.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Folding the Base
- Start with a square: Make sure your paper is square; trim any excess if needed.
- Fold in half: Fold the paper in half diagonally, creating a triangle. Crease sharply and unfold.
- Fold in half again: Fold the paper in half diagonally the other way, creating another triangle. Crease sharply and unfold. You should now have an "X" shape formed by your creases.
Step 2: Creating the Flaps
- Fold to the center: Fold each corner of the square to the center point where the creases intersect. Crease each fold firmly.
- Fold again: Turn the paper over. You should now see a smaller square. Repeat step 1, folding each corner to the center again.
Step 3: Designing Your Cootie Catcher
- Open the flaps: Carefully open up the flaps you just created. You'll have eight triangles facing upwards.
- Color-coding (optional): To make it easier to keep track of the sections, you can color-code the triangles with different colors or patterns on the outside.
- Write your messages: On the inside of each of the eight large flaps, write a number or a category (like "Colors," "Animals," "Countries," etc.).
- Fill in the smaller flaps: Under each of the eight large flaps, on the smaller triangular sections, write your fortunes, answers, or dares. Get creative!
Step 4: Playing the Game
- Open and close: Hold the cootie catcher by the four outermost flaps, forming a small square. Let someone choose a number or category.
- Follow the instructions: Following the chosen number or category, open and close the cootie catcher according to the instructions written inside. Each open and close reveal a different message or section. The last section will reveal the final fortune or dare!
Tips for Creating an Amazing Cootie Catcher:
- Get creative with your design: Use glitter, stickers, or washi tape to decorate your cootie catcher.
- Tailor it to your audience: Create fortunes, dares, or categories appropriate for the age and interests of the players.
- Make it themed: Design a cootie catcher around a specific holiday, movie, or book for extra fun.
Why Make a Cootie Catcher?
Beyond being a fun activity, making a cootie catcher is a great way to:
- Boost creativity: Experiment with different designs and messages.
- Develop fine motor skills: The folding and writing require precision and dexterity.
- Spend quality time: It's a perfect activity to share with friends and family.
- Unleash your inner child: Remember those simpler times and relive the joy of childhood games.
So grab some paper, unleash your creativity, and start making your own cootie catcher today! Enjoy the fun!
