Monster Smash

Kids will be knocked over from all the excitement of this smashing game.

You’ll Need:

• 6 large, empty, clean and dry juice cans or large soup cans
• Coloured construction paper, pre-cut to the size of the cans
• Add-ons, such as googly eyes, fabric trim, felt pieces, feathers, paper streamers, etc.
• Craft glue
• Bean bag(s)

How to Make:

1. Prior to the party, empty, wash and dry the cans.
2. Cover each can with a piece of coloured construction paper (purple, green and orange work best) using craft glue. Allow to dry.
3. At the party, provide each child with one of the covered cans.
4. Have the children create their own ‘monsters’ using the add-ons provided. If they’re having trouble coming up with an idea, remind them that monsters don’t always have two eyes, human shaped mouths, etc.
5. Allow the cans to dry for about 15 minutes.
6. Stack the monster cans in a pyramid.
7. Have the children stand in a line a few feet back from the monster pyramid.
8. Give the first child in line a bean bag and allow them three tosses to try and knock down the monsters.

Good to Know:

• Put each child’s monster at the top of the pyramid when it is their turn. They are more likely to smash their monster down with it in the top position.
• If you have a lot of kids at the party, you can use smaller cans, such as pop cans, which are easier to collect quickly. NOTE: Put masking tape or duct tape over the opening to ensure no one cuts their fingers. Create a few different pyramids to allow multiple Monster Smash games to go on at the same time.
• Increase the difficulty by having the kids try knocking them down from further away.
• If you don’t have a bean bag, substitute a ball instead and play Monster Smash bowling. All the other directions and tips apply.

Thanks to our Savvy Storyteller Susannah from Creative Mama on a Dime for providing this party activity.

To get the full how-to with more pictures, click here.