Bending a coin

Learning to perform magic tricks is a great way for children to develop their confidence and cognitive thinking. This simple coin trick relies on optical illusion.

What you need:

• A coin – a 20 cent piece is the ideal size

Number of players:

Activity:

Hold the coin with both hands – your thumbs should be on the back of the coin and the first and second fingers should be on the front of the coin.

Try to get as much of the coin's surface as you can. The best way to do this is to push the thumbs forward and pull the fingers to the edge of the coin.

Move both your hands inwards so that the backs of your hands move forward and towards each other. Your thumbs should stay on the coin at all times. Then move the hands back into the start position.

Repeat this four or five times in a rhythmic motion. The coin will appear to bend. As you get used to it, you will find that your grip will loosen and you will become more relaxed.

Tips and hints:

• Don't overplay this trick as it relies on an optical illusion. Make it look like hard work at first and as it appears to get easier, speed up the moves.