Preschoolers naturally are inclined to build and problem solve.
Arrange building materials in an inviting way and let them create and build. Be sure to give time for your preschooler to explore the different building materials and try new things to solve the problem.
As the parent or teacher ask open ended questions along the way to extend and stretch their creative thinking.
Week 3 ENGINEERING CHALLENGE:
Design Challenge: Build a Rain Shelter
This activity is re-printed with permission from STEAM:Preschool Activities for STEM Enrichment
Learning Objective
Build a shelter for a toy that can withstand water.
Materials Needed
Building Materials (foam blocks, cardboard, craft sticks, straws, tape)
Squirt Bottle
Directions for Activity:
1. Layout different building materials creating choices to build for the child.
2. Discuss different ways he can keep the toy dry from the water. Ask open ended questions that require him to solve the problem such as, “What can hold a roof up?” or “What makes for a strong wall?” Provide assistance as needed, but let him create the idea.
3. Let him chose the materials they wish to build with for their shelter. It may take patience as they discover which materials work better than others.
4. Once the shelter is complete, test it out by squirting with water simulating rain.
5. Check to see if the shelter kept the toy dry. If not, redesign and rebuild the shelter.
