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Outdoors

Nature Stick Witch Broom

Here's one to try together!

Gather sticks and leaves, bind them tight, then sweep and swoop like a witch on a woodland ride!

30 min5 min prepAges 3 and uplow mess

Reviewed by our team.

Safety first
  • sticks may have sharp ends, so check them first
  • long sticks should be carried pointing down
  • knot tying needs adult help
  • string could be a tangle or wrap hazard for small children

What you need

  • Paper bag, 1 collecting bag
  • String, about 3 feet per broom
  • Kid scissors, 1 pair, for the grown-up

How to do it

Grown-up prep: Check the yard or park for a safe spot. Have a bag and string ready, and be nearby for the knot.

  1. Take your bag and go on a nature walk.
    Ask: What do you think a witch broom is made of?
  2. Find one long, sturdy stick for your handle.
  3. Collect twigs, grass, leaves or pine needles for bristles.
  4. Lay your bristles out and sort them into a pile.
    Ask: Which pieces will make the best sweeper?
  5. Hold the bristles in a bunch around the bottom of the handle.
  6. Wrap the string tightly around the bristles, again and again. Ask for help if you need it
  7. Ask a grown-up to tie the knot to lock it in. A grown-up does this
    Ask: Can you give the bristles a gentle tug to test it?
  8. Sweep the porch or path, then take off on a pretend flight!
  9. Now show your friends, or make more! How fancy can your next broom be?
    Ask: What would you add to the next broom?

Play it again

  • Tiny brooms: make mini brooms from small twigs for toys or fairy houses.
  • Leaf race: sweep a pile of leaves from start to finish line the fastest.
  • Broom parade: decorate each broom with feathers, flowers or ribbons and march around the yard.
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