Catapults are super fun DIY toys for kids, but many versions are super hard to build. Not this one!
This pool noodle catapult is fun, easy and quickly built from noodles and rubber bands. It’s big enough for little hands to play with and soft enough for indoor play. (We just took it outside to get some decent lighting for the photo!)
Pool Noodle Catapult
A fun and easy catapult for little kids.
Materials
- Pool Noodles
- 4 Large Rubber Bands
Tools
- A Sharp Bread Knife
Instructions
- Cut the pool noodles in half--I used a really sharp serrated bread knife for this job, but you could also use a utility knife. (Obviously a parent's should be doing the cutting.)
- Carve a notch into the end of one noodle. This is the throwing arm of the catapult and the notch is where you'll put the pay load.
- Take three of the noodle sections and rubber band them together at both ends. This is the base.
- Attach the throwing arm to the base. Ideally, you would loop one really big rubber band around the throwing arm and the base, but our rubber bands weren't big enough. We tied two bands together. Make sure the notch of the throwing arm is facing upward when you're done.
Notes
You can make the catapult more powerful by shortening the throwing arm--we had to remove a few inches before our catapult worked well. The shorter the arm, the stronger the throw.
Wad up pieces of paper and aluminum foil to make ammunition for the catapult. You can also use cotton balls, but they won’t go far.
Run some tests and see what material goes the farthest!
This project was inspired by a similar design crafted by Toddler Approved. We made a couple improvements, but check out Kristina’s design for more inspiration!
For more Catapult Fun check out “More Mini Catapults that You can Shake a Stick At” where I show you NINE more ideas for flingable fun.
