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13 Simple Origami Lessons for Energetic Kids (VIDEOS)
by Jamie Turner
Updated: May 23, 2021
Originally Published: Jan. 29, 2021
What do you know about origami? If you’re like many parents, you might not know much beyond the fact that it’s a fun activity that can keep your little ones engaged for hours. However, this ancient art of paper folding has a rich history worth exploring!
While origami is often associated with Japan, it actually owes its existence to the invention of paper in China around 105 A.D. It took several centuries before paper made its way to Japan, where origami became a cherished practice. The term “origami” comes from two Japanese words: “oru,” meaning “to fold,” and “kami,” meaning “paper.” In the past, paper was a luxury item, often reserved for special occasions, such as religious ceremonies. As paper became more accessible, origami gained popularity around the world. Interestingly, a similar art of paper folding emerged in Europe during the 12th century.
Today, origami is more popular than ever, with countless books and video tutorials available. While some origami designs can be complex, we’ve gathered some easy origami tutorials that are perfect for keeping your energetic kiddos busy during quiet moments.
Origami for Kids: Flowers
Who doesn’t love flowers? Learning to fold paper flowers not only results in beautiful creations but also provides a sustainable alternative to picking wildflowers. Plus, these skills can come in handy for various occasions, like Valentine’s Day or even weddings!
- Lotus Flower
- Spring Tulip
- Traditional Cherry Blossom
Origami for Kids: Animals
Some of the origami animals in this section may not be traditional shapes, but they are still fun! The origami crane, however, is a classic and symbolizes good fortune and longevity in Japanese culture. Gifting someone an origami crane is a meaningful gesture.
- Symbolic Crane
- Bouncing Bunny
- Delicate Butterfly
- Clever Fox
- Playful Fish
Other Fun and Easy Origami for Kids
Origami isn’t limited to just natural forms! Here are a few popular designs that serve multiple purposes.
- Floating Boat: This classic design actually floats! Experiment with different types of paper to see which one performs best.
- Valentine’s Heart: Perfect for folding a note to a crush or best friend, this heart hides your secrets inside.
- Secret Note: Fun to fold and even more fun to reveal, this creation is an exciting way to send a hidden message.
- Keepsake Box: Great for storing little treasures, kids can customize their boxes with magazine cutouts.
- Blow-up Balloon: A nostalgic favorite, kids can create this balloon and enjoy blowing it up and popping it!
The Original Purpose of Origami
Before becoming a widespread hobby, origami was often used in religious ceremonies in Japan. In the 18th century, paper was quite expensive, leading to its use in special occasions like weddings, where origami butterflies were commonly placed on sake bottles.
Is Origami Beneficial for the Brain?
Absolutely! Origami helps develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and even concentration. It’s a wonderful way for kids to improve their focus, and studies suggest that those who practice origami often excel in math as well.
Origami Jokes
To lighten the mood, here are some origami-related jokes:
- I misplaced Dwayne Johnson’s cutting tool for the origami workshop.
- I can’t believe I lost the Rock’s paper scissors.
- I used to do origami as a hobby… But I gave up because it was a lot of paperwork.
- I watched this awesome show called Origami Wrestling yesterday. It was on paper-view.
- I don’t mean to be bad at origami. That’s just how things unfold.
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Summarized:
In summary, origami is a fantastic way for kids to engage their creativity while developing essential skills. With diverse projects ranging from flowers to animals, this art form provides endless opportunities for fun and learning. Whether for special occasions or simply as a relaxing activity, origami can be a rewarding experience for children and parents alike.
Keyphrase: Easy Origami for Kids
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