Make a Popsicle Gift Box

What can we use if we don't have thick cardboard, a ruler, or a craft stick?

Use a folded cereal box or poster board layers for the cardboard, a straight-edge like a book spine to draw the popsicle shapes and long rectangle, and replace the craft stick with a wooden tongue depressor, recycled ice lolly stick, or a folded strip of cardstock glued to the outside center of the base.

My side band won't bend smoothly or meet evenly—how do I fix that?

If the long strip won't curve, score it lightly along the pencil marks with the blunt edge of scissors, rewrap to check the fit, trim any excess where the strip ends meet, and tape the seam before gluing the band around the popsicle base.

How can I adapt this activity for different age groups?

For preschoolers have an adult cut the two popsicle shapes and the strip and let them paint and stick the craft stick, for elementary kids let them measure, cut, fold, and glue with supervision, and for teens encourage precise cutting, detailed painting, or adding internal dividers before placing treats inside.

What are easy ways to personalize or upgrade the finished popsicle gift box?

Glue tiny magnets into the lid and base for a snap closure, layer colored paper or sequins before painting, add the recipient's name on the lid with markers, or attach a ribbon loop to the craft stick for a handle before decorating.