8-year-old Alfie, from Darlington, made this amazing Stop Motion animation. His mum, Tanya, tells us all about it…

What did Alfie do?

Alfie really wanted to have a go at stop motion so we downloaded an app called Stop Motion Studio (there are others to choose from). 

He loves lego, so wanted to make one of the scenes he’s been building come to life. He made a few notes as a little storyboard so he knew what he wanted to happen.

I helped him set up the area, we used a sheet as a backdrop and a lamp without the shade on to light it. He then spent ages working on the project. Moving the Lego slightly each time, taking a picture and respecting until he was happy it was done.

The app was really easy to use and he had loads of fun and is very happy and proud of the end result! 

We were only using the free version of the app but after closer inspection I’ve found that there are in app purchases to enhance it. You can add a title screen, green screens to have different backgrounds and sounds/music. Alfie wants to do more so I might get the upgraded version.

Also, he was finding it a little frustrating that the base of his set kept moving as he was rearranging the figures so next time he’s going to try blu tak to keep it steady and make the video less jumpy.

What is next for Harry? (prior to his Hollywood career)

He loves Harry Potter and this is something he really wants to do in one of his next projects and also using other toys like his imaginext sets. 

Tell us a bit about yourself…

My name is Tanya. Alfie is my only child, he’s 8. We’re from Darlington in North East England. 

How are you coping with being housebound?

Being housebound with kids has been a bit intense! There’s only Alfie and I at home so it’s quite full-on. He is a big whirlwind of energy that is never still or quiet so the fact he has found this activity that is keeping him focused is awesome. 

Has the community helped?

I’ve loved following Housebound With Kids on Facebook as it has given us lots of ideas to try as well as being a place for us to share what we have been getting up to and feeling like we’re interacting with the outside world.