How to make a kite

7. Tie a piece of string to each end of the shorter stick (the string must be a little longer than the length of the stick). Then do the same for the longer stick (again, making sure the string is somewhat longer than the stick).

8. With one hand, pick up the kite by the strings you have just tied, find where they intersect, then tie that point together with a small piece of string. This is where you will tie your kite string when you are ready to fly it.

9. To make a tail, cut another length of lightweight string and tie ribbons to it roughly 10 cm apart. It's better to tie the tail to the kite, rather than glue it, as you may want to vary the length of the tail according to the wind.

Where the kids can help:
• Get the kids to decorate the paper beforehand (make sure not to weigh down the paper with heavy stickers, or cut-outs)
• Kids love to tie the ribbons on because they don't have to be perfectly tied, but try to ensure they are evenly spaced – you can use markers to show where the ribbons should be tied.

Tips for flying:
• A lightweight paper kite like this is delicate, so moderate winds are best
• Don't fly your kites near trees or overhead wires, as they may get caught
• Kites fly best when they are balanced, so if you notice the kite is tipping to one side when you pick it up by the intersected two strings, glue some paper onto the other side.
• The tail provides stability in the air, so a stronger wind may need a longer tail, while a lighter wind may require you to shorten the tail in order to get it launched.
• Most of all: have fun!

Read more:
• Kids' craft: Baseball buddies
• Kids's craft: Beaded wing fashion dragonfly pin
• 11 ways to get your teen to exercise

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