We’ve been trying out the new range of Blaze and the Monster Machines toys from Fisher Price, and one of the activities we used them with is this simple maths activity that focuses on measuring the distances the vehicles have travelled.
For this activity, we used the Blaze and the Monster Machines transforming turbo launcher which launches the smaller die cast Blaze vehicles, but we also tried it out with some of the other Blaze vehicle and if you don’t have these you could substitute any other vehicles you have to hand (although the launcher lets you experiment with different trajectories, which adds another element of fun and learning to the activity)
In addition to the vehicles and launcher, all you’ll need for this activity is:
- Tape measure
- Start and finish flags (optional but nice to include) and playdough to stand the flag up in.
- Paper to note down the measurements for each vehicle
To extend the activity you could add a stop watch too, and measure the vehicles speed as well as the distance.
We set this activity up in our hall way so that we would have plenty of space for the cars to travel. Hard wood floors will work better than carpet for this activity.
This is a really fun way for children to practise working with measurements, and get comfortable with reading the tape measure. It will also get them thinking about speed and momentum and trajectory all in a fun way, just like watching the show Blaze and the Monster Machines introduces these type of concepts in a fun way.
If your kiddos love cars, they will also love this fun car wash sensory bin idea. Incorporating kids interests into the activities can definitely help your child engage for longer, and stay focused on whatever you have set up.
Essential Lessons from this Fun Activity
Your little ones will not only have a blast with this STEM activity, but they’ll also pick up valuable skills and knowledge along the way! They’ll learn how to work with measurements, understand the relationship between speed, distance, and time, and develop their problem-solving abilities. Plus, they’ll strengthen their fine motor skills and become familiar with basic physics principles – all while having a great time.
Mix it Up
Exciting Variations for Different Skill Levels To keep the activity fresh and engaging, you can adjust the launcher’s trajectory for added challenges or introduce obstacles for kids to navigate around. You can also have them compare and contrast vehicle speeds and distances, or explore how inclines and declines affect motion. For a more advanced twist, consider incorporating lessons on wind resistance and aerodynamics.
Bring the Family Together
Teamwork and Bonding Why not turn this activity into a fun family affair? Organize a friendly competition between family members, work together to calculate average distances and speeds, or discuss how vehicle design impacts performance. It’s a fantastic opportunity for bonding while encouraging teamwork and collaboration.
Tailoring the Activity for Different Age Groups
You can easily adapt this activity for children of all ages. For younger kids, focus on basic measurements and simplify the tasks. Older children can delve into more complex math concepts, and you can promote independent learning by providing age-appropriate resources. As always, offer support and guidance for those who need extra help.
More STEM Fun
Complementary Activities to Keep Kids Engaged If your kids are having a blast with the Measuring Vehicle Distances activity, keep the fun going with these additional STEM projects!
Explore the concept of force with balloon-powered cars, investigate the effects of friction on various surfaces, or design and construct bridges to test weight-bearing capacity. For a unique spin, experiment with magnetic levitation using magnets and toy vehicles.
Inspiring Future STEM Stars
This activity is not only entertaining but also helps kids imagine the exciting careers that await them in the world of STEM. Introduce them to automotive engineering, discuss the roles of physicists in studying motion and forces, and highlight the importance of mathematicians in solving real-world problems.
Encourage your little ones to explore their interests in STEM fields through hands-on activities, and who knows – they might just be inspired to pursue a career in these fields someday!
More fun STEM for Kids
- Popsicle Stick Catapult STEM Activity
- Growing Gummy Bears Kitchen Science Experiment for Kids
- LEGO Duplo Number Line for Addition and Subtraction
More Blaze and the Monster Machines
- Blaze and the Monster Machine Toy Range from Fisher Price
- Blaze and the Monster Machines: Blaze of Glory, Colouring Pages
- Blaze and the Monster Machines Colouring Pages
Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.
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