Of course you want to send tin cans to the recycling plants, but first have some fun with this fun and classic craft for kids!  Get kids creating fun crafts using recycled materials.  These up-cycled tin can stilts are fun for kids to make, decorate and use!  

Supplies for Tin Can Stilts

• 2 tin cans per person
• Hammer 
• Nail
• Rope or string
• Tape measure, yard stick or ruler
• Scissors
• Paper
• Sharpie Markers

Preparation for Stilts activity

Before you present this to the kids, using the hammer and nail punch two holes on the side near the base of the cans directly across from each other.  I had an adult helper hold the can in place so the can did not roll away or move while using the hammer.

​How to make Tin Can Stilts

After you have put two holes in each can give each child two cans. Then have children measure and cut two 5 foot pieces of string and thread it through both holes in one can. When the string has been thread through the holes tile them into a knot. Then repeat with the second can. You should now have two working stilts.

To use them have the kids stand with one foot on each can. Have them hold the string loops in their corresponding hand. As they step they pull up with the string to make sure the can stays on their foot.

Finally, offer sharpies, paper, stickers and whatever else you have around so that kids can decorate their stilts. 

More Up-cycled Crafts

If you like making tin can stilts you may also like whirlygigs. This simple craft uses old cardboard to create an awesome optical illusion craft kids will love.

check out Parentmap.com for their list of 15 awesome up-cycled crafts for kids. This list offers fun and beautiful crafts that uses recycled materials.