Students will create a simple version of a traditional Latin America toy called a balero (pronounced bah-leh-rō). A “balero” is a cup and ball toy where the player attempts to catch the ball in the cup. One end of a string is attached to a rod while the other end of the string is attached to the ball with a hole matching the size of the rod. The object of the game is to land the hole end of the ball on the rod. This is accomplished by swinging the ball upward and then giving a slight flick of the wrist to cause the ball to rotate and face the rod so it can be caught. Apparently, various laws of physics are involved in this game. All that aside, it’s also fun and entertaining!
For this activity students will need:
- 1 cardstock pattern per child (can be printed on colored paper if desired)
- Scissors
- Stapler
- 12” piece of strong string such as twine or jute; 1 per student
- Decorative tape such as Washi tape
- Decorative stickers
- Stick-on rhinestones (optional)
- Markers (optional)
Instructions:
Before class, print balero template on cardstock; 1 per student.
Provide each student with a balero template.
Instruct students to cut along the template line.
Discard the excess paper.
Roll the paper, maintaining the point, and create a cone.
Find a strategic point at the top of the cone to staple the cone together.
Hold the string in place at the top of the balero and staple again, securing the string.
Place the string through the bead. Knot string at end twice to secure bead.
Use decorative tape to secure the balero by wrapping the tape around the balero at several points.
Decorate baleros with stickers and markers.
Voila!
Catching the ball in the cup is harder than it looks!
