Spirograph

Last year, I cleaned out a cluttered cabinet and found treasure in the form of a classic creative toy. The Spirograph is an innovative toy from my childhood still sold today. I wanted to introduce the Spirograph to the children and see what they would create.

As children grow up in our tech-based society, I wondered if they would enjoy creating with a simple toy like a Spirograph. During one of our work periods, I placed the Spirograph templates, paper, and colorful pencils on the table

A few children recognized the Spirograph and decided to try it. Other children asked what it was and how to use it. The children explored the materials and experimented with the spirograph tools. They engaged with the possibilities of the tools and created unique designs. After completing their designs, the children had another idea.

Much of the initial work involved experimenting with the Spirograph’s rotating templates. The children wanted to learn what designs were possible, so they shared some discussion and discovery. The collaboration was accelerating the learning curve for the group. After the children had created some Spirograph drawings, they decided to create frames for their work.

In our collection of materials, we have patterned paper used for scrapbooking. The children thought the patterned paper would be an excellent choice to create a frame to glue around the finished work.

Children have the drive and desire to create new work, given some essential tools and techniques. Our role as co-learner is to share different creative methods with the children. Sharing creative ideas helps children imagine their future work. Children love to learn new techniques and to investigate new tools. They also enjoy the challenge of creating through a process of trial and error.

What classic toys or creative techniques in your program have become new again as the children revisit or discover them for the first time?