Your pool noodle is your trusty summer sidekick, but it has far more uses than taking a dip in the pool, river, lake or ocean. Did you know it also makes a great hobbyhorse or bubble blower? We’ve rounded up some uber fun ways you can transform this dollar store classic into your tot’s favorite new toy. Keep reading to get your noodle craft on.
Pool Noodle Monsters
Boo! These anything-but-scary monsters are the perfect way to use up that old pool noodle. Cut into small pieces, then unleash your inner artist using googly eyes, pipe cleaners, feathers and whatever else you have stashed in your art kit. Get all the details over at Clumsy Crafter.
Abacus
Get the littles outside and learning to count with this simple DIY pool noodle abacus. The simple to create project uses rope, pool noodles and a knife to cut, then is simply strung up in the backyard. You can find all the details over at Happy Hooligans.
Alphabet Knock Down
This activity is so fun, the littles won't even realizing their learning! Pool noodles are cut into C shapes, then a popsicle stick with a letter is added. Say the letter, roll a ball and see if you can knock it down! For all the details, be sure to head to Toddler Approved.
STEM Building Structures
Summer STEM just got a whole lot more fun. This easy to pull off activity uses an inexpensive pool noodle and toothpicks––that's it! Let your little builder develop their building, design, math, fine motor and problem-solving skills with this simple activity from Little Bins for Little Hands.
Launch Pom-Poms
Go the distance with a pool noodle shooter. Get the need-to-know details to make your own from Jaime over at Frogs Snails and Puppy Dog Tails. Then, set up a target shooting range in the backyard for hours of outdoor play. Take aim!
Blow Bubbles
Whether you upcycle your own star or flower-shaped noodles or buy them pre-cut from the craft store, your kidlet will love blowing bubbles through them. And the best part? That you can make wands for the whole neighborhood. Skip to My Lou is where you’ll find out how to make this cute summer supply.
Make a Marble Run
The race is on down this simple marble run dreamed up by Jen over at Mama Papa Bubba. Set it up on a sunny day and kick back while your little ones play, play, play. Psst…cars race well on this track too.
Assemble a Water Wall
After sprinkler dashes and plenty of time wading in the kiddie pool, your mini-me can change it up but still keep cool on a sunny day playing at her pool noodle water wall. We love the idea of mounting one on a moveable pegboard like Claire from Casual Claire does. But, if you don’t have pegboard on hand a fence works just as well. Splash away, all!
Shoot Some Hoops
Indoors or out, these quick-to-assemble basketball hoops are just the right size for your sidekick to practice lay-ups and three-pointers, or to play a quick game of H-O-R-S-E with a sibling. Ever Never Again is where you’ll get the tips you need to set them up at your place. She shoots, she scores!
Ride a Hobbyhorse
Giddy-up, little pardner! Saddle up this cute hobbyhorse for hours of outdoor imaginative play. Find out how to make one yourself at Molly Moon Crafts. Trust us, it’s easier than you think! Hi ho, away!
Run Through the Sprinkler
Turn your pool noodle into the best kiddie pool accessory in town, by converting it into an overhead sprinkler. Ondria at Mommy’s Block Party can walk you through the process. It’s like a trip to the splash pad, without leaving the house. Sounds like the perfect summer pace to us!
— Allison Sutcliffe
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