September 4: Kodak patented the roll film camera (1888).

image from historiccamera.com

In honor of Kodak patenting the roll film camera on this date in 1888, you can show kids how to make their own camera.

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Pinhole Camera

Materials:

• round oatmeal containers
• tissue paper
• aluminum foil
• cellophane tape
• flashlight
• straight pins

Directions:

1. Cut a 3” square out of the bottom of the oatmeal container.
2. Cover the hole with tissue paper.
3. Cut another hole about the size of a postage stamp in the top of the box.
4. Cover the hole with foil.
5. In the middle of the foil, make a small hole with a pin.
6. Cut out a black shape or picture and tape to front of flashlight.
7. Hold oatmeal container about 2’ away from flashlight.
8. Point foil toward flashlight.
9. You should see the picture reflected on the tissue paper.

Source(s): Toolbox Training’s book 100 Science Activities for Kids (activity I17).

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Check out the full September calendar to see the month at a glance as well as floating holidays, specialty weeks, and themes for the month.

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