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Origami: Jumping Frog

A classic, kid-friendly paper-folding project — no scissors or glue needed, just one rectangular sheet of paper. Print this page for step-by-step folding instructions.

  1. Step 1 diagramStart with a rectangular sheet of paper (an index card or a rectangle cut from a square works well) held tall. Fold it in half lengthwise, then unfold — this center crease is just a guide.
  2. Step 2 diagramFold the top two corners down to meet the center crease, so the top of the paper comes to a point like a little roof, leaving two long strips hanging below.
  3. Step 3 diagramFold the two long side strips in over the roof shape so their edges meet the center crease, narrowing the whole shape.
  4. Step 4 diagramFold the two bottom corners out to the sides to form the frog’s small triangular back legs.
  5. Step 5 diagramFold the bottom section up so its edge meets just below the roof fold, then fold that same section in half again downward — this accordion "Z" pleat is the spring.
  6. Step 6 diagramTo make it jump: press down gently on the back of the folded pleat and let go quickly. The spring releases and launches the frog forward!