Why This Craft Works Well in Aged Care
As an aged care activity coordinator, I’ve found that residents enjoy crafts that are simple, hands-on, and a little playful. The rotating paper cup dress-up doll is exactly that. By cutting a “dress window” into one cup and sliding it over another decorated cup, seniors can rotate the inside cup to reveal different outfits.
This project is light-hearted, requires minimal supplies, and always sparks conversation and smiles as residents show off their dolls.
Materials You’ll Need
- 2 paper cups per person
- Markers, crayons, or coloured pencils
- Scissors (staff or volunteers to assist with cutting)
- Glue sticks or tape (if adding extra details)
- Optional: coloured paper, stickers, or fabric scraps for decoration
- Optional: paper doll head cutout
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Outer Cup
Take the first cup and cut out a simple dress-shaped window on the side. Staff or volunteers should do this step for safety.
Step 2: Decorate the Inner Cup
Give residents the second cup. This is where they draw and colour different outfits all around the cup. As it rotates inside the first cup, the outfits will appear through the window.
Step 3: Add the Face and Details
On the top part of the outer cup (above the cut-out), encourage residents to draw a face, hair, or accessories for their doll. They can also glue on small decorations if they’d like.
Step 4: Put It Together and Share
Place the decorated inner cup inside the outer cup with the cut-out. Show residents how to gently rotate the inside cup so the doll changes into different outfits. Encourage residents to share their dolls with one another.
Watch the Video Tutorial
Here’s a helpful demonstration of how the rotating paper cup doll works:
Want More Craft & Decoration Ideas?
Explore more creative activities from Memory Lane Therapy that pair well with rotating paper cup dolls:
- Cupcake Decorating Activity for Seniors
A fun and interactive way for residents to decorate cupcakes, promoting creativity and fine motor skills. - DIY Cheering Hand Foam Activity for Seniors
Engage residents in creating cheering hands using foam, perfect for events and celebrations. - Jack-O-Lantern Activity for Seniors
Celebrate Halloween by crafting jack-o-lanterns, encouraging festive spirit and creativity.
✨ Browse more activities at Memory Lane Therapy to keep your aged care program fresh, engaging, and enjoyable for all residents.
