Free
20 mins
Ages 7+
Mind-reading card trick
Someone secretly picks a card, and you find it every single time. It works by maths, so it can't go wrong.
Crafts and slime
Vanishing coin trick
You hold up a coin, take it in your other hand, and when you open it, the coin has vanished. It's one of the oldest tricks there is, and the secret is all in where you look. Practise in front of a mirror, then fool the whole family.
Ages6+
Time20 mins
CostFree
MessLow mess
WhereIndoors
What you need
Coins are a choking hazard, so keep them away from babies and toddlers.
Let's go
Hold the coin flat between your left thumb and the tips of your left fingers, so your audience can see it clearly.
Bring your right hand over the coin as if you're going to grab it, so your right fingers cover it from the front and your right thumb goes underneath.
Here's the secret. As your right hand closes, let the coin quietly drop from your left fingertips into your left palm. Keep your left hand relaxed and slightly curled.
Move your right hand away in a closed fist, as if the coin is inside. Look at your right hand the whole time. Wherever you look, your audience will look too.
Let your left hand drop casually to your side with the coin hidden inside.
Wave over your right fist, say your magic word, and open it slowly. It's empty!
Real talk
- Practise in front of a mirror until the drop looks natural from the front.
- The big secret of magic is misdirection. Talk, wave and look at the empty hand, never at the hand with the coin.
- For a big finish, "find" the coin behind someone's ear with your left hand.
Budding magician?
Look out for family magic shows at local theatres and festivals, and magic workshops in the school holidays.
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