Make tools

What can we use instead of craft sticks or cardboard if we can't find them?

If you don't have craft sticks or a sturdy cardboard sheet for the 'draw simple shapes on the cardboard' and 'Tape a craft stick to the back...' steps, use wooden spoons, rolled-up cereal box tubes, extra folded cardboard for handles, or thick foam sheets cut into tool shapes and attach them with tape or glue.

My handle keeps falling off — how do I fix it?

When a craft stick handle loosens after you 'Tape a craft stick to the back of one cardboard shape,' press the tape firmly, add extra tape along each taped seam as the instructions say, or have an adult reinforce the joint with glue until it dries.

How can I adapt the steps for younger or older children?

For younger kids have an adult do the 'draw' and 'cut out' steps and let them trim rough edges, decorate, and place tools in the small box, while older kids can use the pencil and ruler to measure and draw accurate shapes, cut their own pieces, shape saw teeth with scissors, and write the tool's name and note on the handle.

What are simple ways to make the pretend toolkit more realistic or fun?

After you 'decorate each tool' and 'write the name of each tool' on the handle, add Velcro dots or elastic loops inside the small box so tools stay put, create a pretend tool belt from fabric, and then share a photo of your finished pretend toolkit on DIY.org as the instructions request.