How to make easy origami figures for kids step by step?

Making origami figures is a fun and educational activity that fosters creativity and fine motor skills in children. This is the Japanese art of folding paper to create shapes without the need for cutting or glue and can become an invaluable tool for child development. Learn more!

Steps to make origami figures for children

Choose the type of paper

To begin, select origami paper that has a low grammage to make it easy to manipulate. Additionally, you can opt for paper with bright colors or designs that will attract children's attention.

Start with simple paper figures

It is important to start with easy figures. Some of the most recommended are a paper boat, a little bird, or a hat; let's see how to make them:

Instructions for making a boat

1. Fold the paper in half: fold the square paper in half to form a rectangle. Then, unfold it.
2. Form a triangle: bring the two upper corners towards the center to form a triangle at the top of the rectangle.
3. Fold the bottom corners: bring the two bottom corners of the triangle towards the center.
4. Open and form the boat: open the fold and fold the two layers outwards to form the body of the boat.
5. Adjust the boat: adjust the folds so that the boat stands upright.

Instructions for making a hat

1. 1. Fold the paper in half: fold the paper in half to form a rectangle. Make sure the edges are aligned. Then, unfold it.
   2. Fold the top corners: bring the two top corners of the paper towards the center to form a triangle at the top.
   3. Adjust the triangle: make sure the edges of the triangle are aligned with the bottom edge of the paper.
   4. Fold the bottom edges: fold the bottom edges of the triangle upwards, aligning them with the base of the triangle. This will form the brim of the hat.
   5. Adjust the edge: flatten the folds to ensure they are well defined.
   6. Maintain the shape: if necessary, adjust the folds to give the hat the desired shape. Additionally, you can make small extra folds at the edges to reinforce the structure.

Instructions for making a little bird

1. Fold the paper in half: fold the origami paper into a triangle by bringing one corner to the opposite edge. Make sure the edges are aligned, crease well, and unfold.
2. Fold the bottom corners: bring the two bottom corners of the triangle towards the center, aligning them with the top edge of the triangle. This will form a diamond shape.
3. Fold the bottom corners of the diamond: form the body of the bird by bringing the two bottom corners towards the center to form a point at the bottom.
4. Form the head and tail: take the top triangle (the one that has not been folded) and fold it downwards to form the bird's head. The triangle remaining at the bottom will be the bird's tail.
5. Fold the wings: bring the side edges of the triangle outwards to form the wings. Make sure the folds are well creased and adjust the shape of the body and tail so that the little bird has a balanced shape.
6. Decorate: you can draw eyes on the little bird or add small details to personalize it.

Ensure precise folds

Good folding is essential for the figure to maintain its shape. Make sure the folds are crisp and well-defined.

Decoration and personalization

Encourage children to decorate their figures with colored pencils or stickers to make them unique.

Benefits of making origami figures for children

Development of fine motor skills

Origami requires precise movements and handling paper in specific ways, which helps children improve their fine motor skills. Additionally, making folds and creases strengthens the small muscles in the hands and fingers, promoting greater coordination and dexterity.

Fostering creativity and imagination

Through the creation of unique paper figures, children can experiment with different shapes, colors, and patterns, stimulating their creative ability.

Development of problem-solving skills

Following step-by-step instructions teaches children to think in sequences and anticipate results. This helps children develop skills where they learn to overcome challenges and find solutions when folds don't turn out as expected.

Improved concentration and patience

Origami is an activity that requires concentration and patience. Children must focus on each fold and adjustment, which helps them improve their ability to concentrate on tasks for extended periods.

Fostering a sense of accomplishment

Success in creating origami figures provides positive reinforcement and motivates children to continue exploring new forms. Recognizing their own creations helps build a positive self-image.

Stimulating teamwork

Children learn to collaborate and share ideas as they work together on origami projects. Teamwork improves communication skills and the ability to listen and respect the ideas of others.

Transform your creativity with origami!

Get your origami paper at Panafargo and start creating wonderful figures today. Take the step towards a world full of imagination!