Fortune tellers, also fondly remembered as “cootie catchers,” are more than just folded paper; they’re gateways to imaginative play and cherished childhood memories. Parents, recall the simple joy of crafting these paper novelties and sharing playful predictions with friends. Now, it’s time to introduce this timeless activity to a new generation. This easy-to-follow guide will walk you through each step of folding a fortune teller, ensuring hours of entertainment and creative exploration for your little ones.
Whether you use our pre-designed template filled with engaging activities or a blank template for personalized fun, crafting a fortune teller is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon. Kids can unleash their creativity by coloring, decorating, and filling their custom fortune tellers with jokes, dares, or imaginative prompts. Let’s dive into the simple steps and rediscover the magic of paper fortune tellers!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fold a Fortune Teller
Creating a paper fortune teller is easier than you might think. Follow these straightforward instructions, and you’ll be folding like a pro in no time.
Step 1: Start with a Square Piece of Paper
Begin by ensuring you have a square piece of paper. If you’re using a rectangular sheet, trim it into a perfect square. You can use our pre-filled fortune teller template or a blank template for customization. Scissors will be handy for cutting along the template’s border if needed.
Step 2: Create Diagonal Folds
Fold the square paper diagonally in both directions to create an “X” shaped crease. First, bring the top right corner to meet the bottom left corner, forming a triangle. Crease sharply along the fold and then unfold. Repeat this process by folding the top left corner to the bottom right corner, creasing and unfolding again. These diagonal creases are essential for the next steps.
Step 3: Fold Corners to the Center (First Set)
Now, fold each corner of the square paper towards the center point where the diagonal creases intersect. Crease each fold firmly, ensuring all four corners meet neatly in the middle. This will transform your square into a smaller square.
Step 4: Flip and Fold Again
Turn the folded paper over to the blank side. You’ll see a new square shape. Repeat the previous step by folding each of the four corners towards the center of this new square. Crease all folds securely. At this stage, numbers or symbols should be visible on the flaps if you are using a pre-filled template.
Step 5: Shape the Fortune Teller
Fold the square in half, bringing one side to meet the opposite side, with the numbered flaps on the outside. Gently slide your thumbs and index fingers underneath the square flaps on each side. Carefully maneuver your fingers to open and close the fortune teller. Congratulations, you’ve successfully folded a paper fortune teller!
How to Play with Your Paper Fortune Teller
Now that your fortune teller is ready, let the games begin! Here’s how to use it for playful predictions and fun activities:
Step 1: Choose a Color: Have the child select one of the colors visible on the top squares of the fortune teller. Spell out the chosen color aloud, opening and closing the fortune teller with each letter. For example, if “Blue” is chosen, spell “B-L-U-E,” moving the fortune teller four times.
Step 2: Pick a Number: Next, instruct the child to choose one of the numbers now displayed inside the fortune teller. Count out loud to that number, again alternating the fortune teller’s opening and closing motions with each count.
Step 3: Reveal the Fortune: Finally, ask the child to select another number from the inner flaps. This time, unfold the flap they choose to reveal the hidden message or activity underneath.
Creative Activity Ideas for Fortune Tellers
Looking for inspiration to fill your fortune teller? Here are some engaging activity ideas, perfect for our pre-filled template or for customizing your own blank version:
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Bookworm Adventure: Encourage quiet time with a “Bookworm” activity. Suggest spending the afternoon reading favorite books in a cozy reading nook. A Radio Flyer wagon filled with pillows and blankets makes a perfect, whimsical reading space.
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Snail Mail Surprise: Promote kindness and connection with a “Snail Mail” activity. Have kids decorate and write handwritten letters or cards to family or friends. Use our Printable Cards for Kids for an extra touch of creativity.
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Researcher Extraordinaire: Spark curiosity with a “Researcher” activity. With adult guidance, kids can explore their favorite animal online or in library books, becoming experts and sharing their newfound knowledge through stories, drawings, or even a phone call to a grandparent.
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Water Day Fun: Embrace outdoor play with a “Water Day” activity. Whether it’s a sprinkler, beach, or backyard hose, cool off and have fun in the sun. Load up a Classic Red Wagon with water balloons or try Camp Radio Flyer Water Day games for extra splashy excitement.
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Storytelling Magic: Unleash imagination with a “Write a Story” prompt. Kids of all ages can participate, with younger ones dictating stories for a grown-up to write down. Use prompts like, “The magician pulled his magic wand out of his bag…” to get those creative juices flowing.
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Indoor Fort Adventure: Build a cozy “Indoor Fort” for imaginative play. Use furniture, blankets, and even scooters as fort supports. Decorate with pillows, books, and string lights (with adult supervision) for the ultimate hideaway.
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Artistic Expression: Encourage creativity with an “Unlock Your Inner Artist” activity. Bring out paints, crayons, stickers, and Paper Doll templates for a session of artistic exploration.
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Picnic Delight: Plan a fun “Picnic” activity. Pack snacks, drinks, and games in your wagon and head to the backyard or a local park. Try our picnic ideas for a unique twist on a classic outing.
Paper fortune tellers are more than just a nostalgic craft; they are a fantastic tool for engaging children’s creativity, promoting interaction, and providing hours of simple, screen-free fun. So gather your paper, follow our “How To Fold A Fortune Teller” guide, and start creating memorable moments with this classic activity today!
