Communication - Making String Telephones

Communication using telephones

Using telephones as a form of communication has been around for a long time. The evolution of the telephone from the ones on the wall with the windup handle to the cellphones and watches that are used today have always been a bit mysterious to many people. How does the sound get from one phone to another? How does it travel around the world?

Have you ever watched a small child's face when they listen to sound coming out of a telephone? It is fun to watch them trying to find the person inside the receiver. The puzzled looks speak volumes.
How did you do that? Where are you? Why can't I see you?

Children love to imitate what they see others doing. They see their parents holding onto the telephone receiver and talking, so they want to do the same. Of course, with play phones they can't hear anything coming through the receiver, but they pretend that they do.

Making pretend calls with others is fun. It doesn't matter what type of phone is used. Imagine the surprise when you actually hear someone else's voice when you are making a pretend call.

As they become familiar with hearing voices coming out of the telephone, they enjoy listening to the caller and want to talk too!

Making a string telephone

Have you ever made a string telephone? It is easy to do and it is fun to try it out. It is always so surprising to kids when they actually hear a sound coming out of the tin can or other container used.

I have created an experiment and craftivity for making string telephones. Check it out here.

Happy communicating!