So what is a Thaumatrope? A thaumatrope is an optical toy that was popular in the 19th century. Invented by Dr. John Paris in 1825, it was used to illustrate the phenomenon called retinal persistence, an optical illusion that occurs when an image stays on the retina after the image was seen.

This is a fun science experiment for kids to color and try. When you spin the thaumatrope the image combine to create one image.

Check our instagram reels to see the video in action.

Download free printable HERE.