Simple Electronics for STEM Education

Paper Circuits for Kids

A guide to simple electronics for STEM education

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Full Guide to Paper Circuits

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Easy Circuit Tutorial

Download Easy Circuit TEmplate

This easy circuit is the perfect starting point for kids to explore electronic components. Kids will build a battery holder, a switch, and a slot that holds a LED. The LED can be exchanged with a solar motor or a buzzer. You can use velostat in between the switch to have a pressure sensor instead of an on/off switch.

the easy paper circuit template with conductive tape on it

Step 1: Trace the circuit with conductive tape.

Important: Leave a small gap where the LED will go. This will "force" the current to flow through the LED.

the easy paper circuit with an LED connected to it.

Step 2: Attach the LED legs to the circuit using strips of conductive tape. Make sure the LED has the correct orientation.

Important: LED legs should be placed on top of the conductive tape from step 1.

the easy paper circuit with a binder clip securing the button cell

Step 3: Fold the flap over the battery and secure it with a paper clip.

Important: The negative pole of the battery must be facing down.

Step4: Fold on/off switch over and try out your circuit.

If your LED does not light up

  • Try turning the battery (or LED) around.

  • Make sure there is a gap in the circuit under the LED.

  • Check if there is a short circuit directly at the battery (conductive tape bridging the black ring).

If your LED is always on

  • Make sure there is a gap where the on/off switch folds over.

Paper Circuit Electronics

Components I use

If you want to know more about the components I use, refer to my Order Electronics page.

Note: All my downloads include a shopping guide to make it easy for you to order the exact components I use.

Paper Circuit Safety

Last but not least, a word about safety. For all my paper circuits I use these little button cells (CR2032). These batteries are a choking hazard for small children. Some projects use up to four of them. The CR2032 is very low energy, making it the safest option for making paper circuits. I have never had any problems with my paper circuits, even when I have deliberately short-circuited these batteries. However, all my recommendations are based on my personal experience. I am not an electrical engineer. Use my work at your own risk.