How to make a boomerang with kids

Boomerangs are a lot of fun for kids. They toss them in the air and then watch them return, almost like magic! Making a boomerang with kids will give them a sense of accomplishment and also keep them entertained for hours. It is a simple project that can be done with a group of kids for a party craft, or just on your own during the lazy days of summer.

The easiest type of boomerang to make and throw for kids is the three-arm style. It can be made of light cardboard such as poster board, a cereal box, or heavy card stock. You can make your boomerang any size, though 1' x 1' is a good starting size to practice with.

Blow the template up on your computer or on a copy machine to the size you want it, print, and cut it out. Lay it on your cardboard and trace.

Carefully cut out your boomerang from the cardboard and trim away any rough edges. Fold the edges down where the red lines are on the template. This forms the airfoils. Only bend them down slightly; otherwise, your boomerang won't fly properly.

Decorate your boomerang with the stickers, paint, or markers. Don't glue on heavy decorations that may weigh it down.

Give your boomerang a test flight. You throw a boomerang similar to how you throw a frisbee. Grasp the boomerang by one of the arms on the side that doesn't have the airfoils. Twist your wrist towards your body then flick it out, flinging the boomerang. It may not come back to you on its first flight. That's OK. You just need to bend the three arms down slightly and then try again. If it still doesn't work, try bending them up instead. Everyone throws a little differently, so what works for one person may not for another.