Growing up, whenever my brothers and I would complain about being bored my parents would suggest building a bridge to China… or California, or Costa Rica. Maybe it was because we lived in Hawaii, and constructing a bridge anywhere over the Pacific was not such a bad idea.
Fast forward a few decades… I’m a parent living in the Midwest and I have yet to use the “build a bridge” line on my own daughter. However, when the time comes to make the suggestion I plan to make it an educational experience.
Bridge building can be a terrific learning activity. Whether you build a bridge from two chairs and some books or you follow the directions below to make a light-frame bridge that can withstand the weight of a small child, focus on making the project an educational one for you and your child.
BASIC BRIDGE
Materials:
Toothpicks or straws
Gumdrops or mini-marshmallows
Pencil
Two chairs
A book or magazine
Directions:
Before you get building have your kids examine the construction of items in and around your home. Have them note the designs of your kitchen table, dining-room chairs, the roof, the mailbox, etc.
Next, have them build a few geometric shapes out of toothpicks and gumdrops and test them for strength. If you have younger children, show them that the triangle is the strongest shape –all three of its sides work together to support the weight you place on it.
With older children use graph paper to sketch a bridge design. Otherwise, have them use their materials to build a bridge using the trail and error method.
Once the bridge is complete put it to the test. Place it between two chairs and place a magazine on top. If the bridge can hold the magazine, move on to books, then heavier items.
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