After the success of
this simple Styrofoam and craft sticks building activity, I decided to set up another invitation to build. My kids loved this simple
engineering STEM challenge for kids using pool noodles and pipe cleaners.
This activity was simple and engaging, but lead to hours of creativity and experimentation.
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Simple Engineering STEM Activity for Kids: Building with Pool Noodles & Pipe Cleaners
For this activity, I used:
I cut the
pool noodles into 1.5" pieces (give or take...I didn't really measure them) a few months ago. We have used these pool noodle blocks in the bath tub. We've stacked them. And we've done a few other activities that I haven't blogged about.
Seriously, pool noodles are incredibly versatile! They can be used to
work on fine motor skills with rubber bands,
balance on, or even
make mix and match creature blocks.
The boys really enjoyed this invitation to build with pool noodles.
K started out by pressing pipe cleaners into the pool noodles and eventually connected two pool noodles to one pipe cleaner. He was really focused on this activity, as you can see below. It was also really good fine motor practice for him. This creation turned into glasses, ear muffs, and even a necklace.
Instead of pressing the pipe cleaners into the pool noodles like K did, J decided to use the pipe cleaners as a support brace through the middle of the pool noodles. Doing so, opened up his imagination. He first made a birthday candle, which led to him singing "Happy Birthday," of course.
Then he added a few more blocks and declared that it was a drink with a straw.
And, naturally, it makes sense to give that drink a sip.
Then J built a really tall tower before he let it topple over.
This invitation was so simple to set up, but it led to some great imaginative play by both boys.
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That looks like so much fun! I think my boy would love to try this!
ReplyDeleteAwesome. Have fun!
DeleteThese are great fine motor for younger kids by using them for stringing, I used a heavy cord and stiffened several inches for one end with duct tape rather than use a needle, on the other end of the cord tie of a section of pool noodle. Cut several different colors and lengths of noodles so they can practice sorting and fine motor skills.
ReplyDeleteStringing pool noodles is definitely a lot of fun too!
DeleteWhat did you use to cut the pool noodle?
ReplyDeleteI usually just use a sharp knife from the kitchen, but an utility knife works well too.
Delete