Paper-Plate Code Makers

Why

What fun to share secret messages with friends! Design your code maker together. Write each other notes that no one else can read.


Steps

1. Use a small Party Express Paper Plate for the top wheel of your code maker. Along the edge of the plate, use Crayola® Scissors to cut out a small square.

2. On the back of the plate, draw an arrow pointing toward the cut-out hole. Decorate the arrow and the rest of the plate with Crayola Fine Tip Markers.

3. Around the outside, back edge of the larger plate, write alphabet letters (and numerals if you like).

4. Use a brad to fasten the small plate face down onto the larger plate.

5. Point the arrow toward the A. In the box opening write another letter or symbol to stand for the A. You could use the alphabet in reverse (A means Z), or you could choose a different symbol or a picture for each letter. When every letter and numeral has a code, you’re ready to write secret messages!

Safety Guidelines

Adult supervision is required for any arts & crafts project.

Small Parts— WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD—Small parts. Not for children under 3 years.

Scissors—ATTENTION: The cutting edges of scissors are sharp and care should be taken whenever cutting or handling. Blunt-tip scissors should be used only by children 4 years and older. Pointed-tip scissors should be used only by children 6 years and older.

Related Crafts

Crafts

 

Supplies

crayola supplies
  • Fine Line Markers
  • Blunt-Tip Scissors
household supplies
  • Party Express paper plates
  • brads

Where & When

"I include a secret message in my daughter’s lunch box! She loves it!"
Kelli T., mom of age 8.

"We studied the importance of codes in World War I and II, especially the Navajo code breakers. Kids thought their Code Makers were cool!"
Tom M., scout leader.


Interesting Info

The following words alone constitute about 25% of an average English text: THE OF AN TO A IN THAT IT IS I. Approximately 75% of an English text is unnecessary to communicate clearly. E is the most commonly used letter in English.