Perform a magic show!
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Plan and rehearse simple magic tricks, make safe props and a short routine, then perform a friendly magic show for family or classmates.

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Step-by-step guide to perform a magic show

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Fun & Simple Magic Tricks Kids Can Try | Magic Made Easy

What you need
Adult supervision required, coin or small object, colouring materials, deck of cards, paper and pencil, scarf or handkerchief, scissors, small box or cup, tape or glue

Step 1

Pick three simple tricks you want to learn such as a card trick a disappearing coin and a scarf vanish.

Step 2

Choose which trick will open which will be the middle and which will be the grand finale.

Step 3

Write a short script for each trick with a one or two sentence intro and one reveal line.

Step 4

Make safe props using paper tape scissors and colouring materials like a secret coin pocket a decorated box or a paper wand.

Step 5

Practice each trick slowly five to ten times focusing on the exact moves until they feel smooth.

Step 6

Practice your patter and what you will say between tricks until the words feel natural.

Step 7

Rehearse the transitions by moving from one trick to the next without stopping.

Step 8

Create a simple costume piece and pick a magic name to use on stage.

Step 9

Set up your performance area with a chair a small table and a sign that says Magic Show.

Step 10

Invite family or classmates to be your audience and tell them to sit quietly and clap when you finish.

Step 11

Perform your friendly magic show for the audience and take a bow at the end.

Step 12

Share your finished creation on DIY.org

Final steps

You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!

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Help!?

What can I use if I don’t have coins, playing cards, or scarves for the tricks?

If you don't have coins, use a large button or metal washer for the disappearing coin, make simple playing cards from paper and colouring materials for the card trick, and substitute a square of coloured paper for a scarf so you can still use the paper tape and decorated box props.

My vanish or reveal keeps failing—what should I check or fix during practice?

Slow down and practice each trick slowly five to ten times as the instructions say, mark hand positions with a small piece of tape, tuck the secret coin pocket securely under the decorated box or sleeve, and rehearse transitions until the moves and patter feel smooth.

How can I change the activity for younger or older kids?

For younger kids choose simpler tricks (like a button vanish), shorter one-sentence intros and a big, easy paper wand prop, while older kids can add sleight variations, longer patter and more complex transitions following the same practice steps.

What are easy ways to make the show more special or longer-lasting?

Decorate your box and paper wand, create a costume piece with your chosen magic name, make a handmade 'Magic Show' sign for the chair and small table setup, add simple sound effects or lighting cues for transitions, and share the finished performance on DIY.org.

Watch videos on how to perform a magic show

Here at SafeTube, we're on a mission to create a safer and more delightful internet. 😊

Magic Tricks with Anaya 🎩✨ | Fun Kids Magic Show | Learn Easy Tricks! #kidslearning

3 Videos

Facts about magic and performing arts for kids

🃏 A standard deck has 52 cards—card magicians use math, patterns, and practice to make amazing routines.

🗝️ Harry Houdini made escape acts world-famous in the early 1900s and inspired generations of performers.

👀 Misdirection—moving the audience's attention away from secret moves—is one of the most powerful magic techniques.

🐇 The rabbit-from-a-hat trick rose to fame in the 19th century and is still one of the most recognizable magic symbols.

🎩 Top hats and capes became a magician's stage look in the 1800s, helping create the classic magician image kids know today.

How do I plan and perform a simple magic show with my child?

Start by choosing two to four simple tricks your child enjoys, then plan a short routine with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Break each trick into steps and rehearse them slowly, adding patter (fun lines) and smooth transitions. Practice in front of a mirror, then do a dress rehearsal for timing and props. Set a small stage area, cue an audience, and remind the performer to smile and take a bow at the end.

What materials do I need to make safe props for a kid-friendly magic show?

You'll need simple, safe materials: scarves or handkerchiefs, plastic cups, sponge balls, a child-safe deck of cards, a lightweight magic wand (or painted dowel), cardboard boxes, tape, scissors (supervised), markers and stickers for decorating props, a cloth for disappearing tricks, and a small table or lap blanket. Consider non-toxic glue, Velcro, and reusable adhesive putty. Avoid sharp objects and small choking hazards for young children.

What ages is a DIY magic show suitable for?

This activity suits many ages with different expectations. Ages 3–5 enjoy simple reveal or peek tricks with adult help and large props. Ages 6–8 can learn basic sleights, sponge-ball routines and timing with short rehearsals. Ages 9–12 handle multi-step tricks, stage presence and costume choices. Teens can design original routines and manage props independently. Always supervise younger children, adapt trick difficulty, and focus on confidence-building rather than perfection.

What safety tips should I follow when kids perform a magic show?

Safety tips: avoid flames, sharp edges, and toxic materials—use only non-toxic paints and glues. Keep small parts away from toddlers and label props that are choking risks. Supervise scissors, elastic bands and any force-based tricks. Secure loose cords and ensure the performance area is clear of trip hazards. Do a practice run to test props, and have a basic first-aid kit nearby. Teach children to say if something feels unsafe and encourage gentle tricks suitable for the audience.
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