The Kaleidoscope Effect

When presented with a hinged mirror, the mind is taken beyond what we expect to see. If stimulates endless exploration, and our curiosity goes wild.

We introduced the hinged mirror as we were doing game development research, and observed how creative the children became. Waiting to discover the unexpected naturally awakens an interest to investigate further.

Initially we introduced the hinged mirror with our Base Cards and Elements, and children explored replicating patterns in the mirror reflection, or creating their own patterns with using their imagination.

But using the mirror also triggers an interest in how the hinged mirror works, and how the reflected images change depending on the angle that the mirror is placed at. Starting at 90 degrees, and then moved slowly to a close, or outward into a 180 degree angle. It is fascinating to watch how the kaleidoscope patterns transform as the mirror changes angle.

Creatively children start to experiment by putting other things in the mirror. Exploring with leaves, flowers, sticks and stones. The most beautiful mandalas come into being. Nature offers lots of inspiration when using the hinged mirror. Take hinged mirrors with you out into nature and the children play freely with what emerges from them.

A hinged mirror is a must in every learning environment. It is easy to make in various sizes. Make one today! Watch our instruction video and find out how easy it is to make your own hinged mirror here!

If you want activities to combine with the hinged mirror, download our Beginner Level Patterns that offers lots of creative exploration with the mirror here.

Let's Play!