Build a kaleidoscope from a Pringles can

How to do it

Eat the Pringles together — that's part of the activity. Cut the empty can to about 6 inches tall. Cut three rectangles from a sheet of acrylic mirror (or use a cheap mirror sheet), each 5 inches tall x can-inner-width wide. Form them into a triangle prism, mirror sides facing in, and slide it into the can. Cap one end with a clear plastic disc, drop in colorful beads, sequins, and a small marble. Cap the other end with cardboard with a small hole. Look through. Rotate. Their eyes get huge. Talk about reflection: each mirror bounces the image, the three mirrors create infinite copies arranged in a flower. They keep the kaleidoscope. They show grandma at the next visit.

What you'll need

• Pringles can (empty)

  Free

• Acrylic mirror sheet (small)

  Amazon

• Pony beads + sequins assortment

  Amazon

• Clear contact paper

  Amazon