Blinkybug Invasion!

Mark made some super-fun “blinkybug” toys for Emily, and the two of them spent some quality time together making and later playing with these all afternoon. After all, making your own toys is a lot cheaper (and WAY more FUN) than buying them!!

These little critters have blinking LED lights that turn on when their “antennae” pick up small vibrations to close the circuit. They can be made with leftover electronic components or items readily available at an electronics store.

This project was a BIG hit with Emily’s keen interest in electronics lately. Hmmm… I wonder where she gets that from??

Anyhoooooo… a BIG thank you to my dad for passing along an older issue of Popular Mechanics, which featured a simple tutorial to make these. There is even a Blinkybug Kit available on Amazon, so I’m fairly certain these creatures are plotting to take over the world!!

Here is a short video of our blinky bugs – in action! 

Comments

  1. Dear Valerie,

    Thankfully, with these bugs, if there is an infestation we can simply remove the batteries.

    Love,
    Mark

  2. Now THAT is some movie magic in the making…

  3. Very interesting! I wonder if my husband might get on action here – thanks for sharing a tutorial!

  4. Very cute! And FANTASTIC father-daughter time =)

  5. I just found your blog on the Homeschool Blog Awards so I popped over to check it out! Very cute idea! Love the idea of being thrifty with our pennies =-)

    I am a new reader. I would love for you to follow me back, if you want to =-)
    Beth
    http://www.livinglifeintentionally.blogspot.com

  6. I bet my kids would love that! I so need to get out my Snap Circuits to show the kids how much fun electronics can be……

    • Yes!!! Snap circuits are on Emily’s holiday wish list this year — I bet she would have a blast with them! 🙂

  7. Love the music and backdrop of the video. Your daughter cracks me up.