Take a look at our machine to get a sense of what’s possible. Don’t worry too much about building things like pulleys and levers for young children. The basic concept that we’re exploring is that of a chain reaction, so anything that tips something else over (and so one) is what you’re going for. While the OK Go video (and others like it) includes some pretty complex machines and concepts, keep this simple for preschoolers. Once you have the supplies ready, start building. Here are some ideas to get you started: Things that Roll These can largely be found in your home or classroom - start with what you have! You will most likely start with some of these basics, and then forage your home or classroom for more supplies as you go. You can print out the following list here.Ĭollect a bucket-full of supplies and then lay them out so they’re easily seen. Once you have a problem sorted out (and don’t worry – you can change this later if you want), gather supplies… Step 3: Gather Supplies Next, come up with a simple problem that you’re trying to solve. It’s incredible complicated, but oh-so-amazing, so don’t think for one hot second that you’ll be able to replicate this with little kids. My kids and I LOVE this video from OK Go. However, these pictures have since served as inspiration for makers and builders who want the challenge of making wild inventions to solve everyday problems.Īnd apparently, Rube Goldberg is a now an adjective in the dictionary! You can read more about Goldberg here.įirst things first, you’ll want to watch some Rube Goldberg contraptions in action to get inspired. Interestingly, Goldberg only drew the pictures, and never built any of his inventions. Goldberg began his career as an engineer, and later became a cartoonist who drew elaborate illustrations of contraptions made up of pulleys, cups, birds, balloons, and watering cans that were designed to solve a simple task such as opening a window or setting an alarm clock.

About Rube Goldbergįor the uninitiated, Rube Goldberg was an American Pulitzer Prize winning cartoonist, sculptor, author, engineer, and inventor, and his work is a classic example of the melding of art and science. And triple hurrah for projects that celebrate STEM and STEAM learning. We were on the hunt for easy Rube Goldberg ideas, watched a few videos, and came up with this fun solution that works for young children. We are long-time fans of marble runs (see the resources page for recommendations), and extending our love for rolling balls and ramps into the world of Rube Goldberg was a no-brainer. This project has long been on my to-do list with my kids. Next Tuesday, 4th April, 09:00 am, Cartoon Creations Spring Break Camp in East AmherstĪlso check out other Arts Events in Clarence, Kids Events & Activities in Clarence.So, are you interested in building a Rube Goldberg-style machine with little kids? This post will give you a few tips and ideas to make your own complicated machine.Next Monday, 3rd April, 12:30 pm, Futuristic Fun Spring Break Camp in East Amherst.Next Monday, 3rd April, 09:00 am, Spring Science Spring Break Camp in East Amherst.You may also like the following events from Stutelage Innovations: Science: Great Ball Contraption Lego BuildsĬooperative Learning: Mystery Build Lego ActivityĬulinary Arts: Lego Cheese and Crackers SnackĬooperative Learning: Lego Balloon Car RacesĬooperative Learning: Lego Ring Toss GameĬooperative Learning: Lego Bingo ActivityĬooperative Learning: Funny Lego Jokes Group ActivityĬooperative Learning: Lego Town Group Building You won’t want to miss out on this creative week! We will also learn how to draw Lego characters, create Lego puppets, and make a Lego cheese and cracker snack. Everything is awesome at Stutelage Lego camp! Get ready to build with everyone’s favorite bricks, play bingo, have balloon car races and challenge ourselves in ring toss.

Ball contraption maker online