Looking for things to do during half term that don’t involve screens, mess, or hours of planning? Enter: magnetic magic tricks – a brilliant blend of science, creativity, and good old-fashioned fun. Whether you’re aiming for a mini magic show for kids or just some cool at home activities for half term, these ideas are perfect for keeping children busy over school holidays.
And the best part? You only need a few clever magnets and a little imagination!
Why Magnetic Magic?
Magnets are like invisible superpowers – they attract, repel, float, and vanish in ways that feel like real magic to kids. Better still, magnetic tricks are hands-on and totally reusable. You can repeat them again and again, each time with a little more flair.
Check out these three products that will take your magic tricks to the next level:
🧙♂️ The Classic Vanishing Trick — with Stitch-In PVC Coated Magnets
Hide these clever stitch-in magnets in a sleeve, glove, or even behind a pocket. Then, with a flick of the wrist, make paperclips, coins, or tiny steel objects disappear or “stick” to thin air. These are the same style of magnets used by professional illusionists – now your child can try them at home!
🧠 Parent Tip: Let your child design a magician’s costume and practice their routine.
🌀 The Floating Ring Trick — with 12mm Ring Ferrite Magnets
This one’s a showstopper. Stack a few of these ferrite ring magnets with like poles facing, and watch them float above each other without touching. It’s science, but to a child, it’s levitation!
🎭 Combine with a story: “This is the ring that floats above all because it’s enchanted!” A great way to blend storytelling and STEM.
🧲 The Magnetic Compass or Mind Reading Trick — with Alnico Bar Magnets
Alnico bar magnets are classics for a reason. They’re great for magnetic experiments but they’re also ideal for “mind-reading” games, where your child “predicts” which objects are magnetic, or for making a DIY compass as part of a pirate-themed treasure hunt.
🏴☠️ Idea: Hide “treasure” around the house and give magnetic clues. Your child can play explorer, guided only by the mysterious pull of their bar magnet.
Make It a Half-Term Magic Show!
Turn your living room into a mini theatre. Set up a stage with a curtain (a blanket works!), let your child perform their tricks with a dramatic flair, and invite siblings or grandparents to be the audience. Bonus points for making tickets and posters!
Benefits for Parents
Besides being tons of fun, these activities tick off lots of boxes:
- Screen-free entertainment
- STEM learning disguised as play
- Easy clean-up and reusable supplies
- Builds confidence, creativity & presentation skills
When you’re juggling keeping children busy over school holidays, magnetic magic tricks are a total win. They’re simple to set up, endlessly repeatable, and genuinely exciting. Whether you’re looking for at home activities for half term or something extra special like a magic show for kids, a few magnets and a sprinkle of imagination will go a long way.
Want to see more? Explore FIRST4MAGNETS® for even more ideas and magnet types to fuel your next half-term adventure!
