STEM activities are essential for kids development and in this post we will show you how you can transform an easy craft into a super fun science experiment activity.
These hands on activity can introduce complex elements of maths, science and technology in an effective and exploratory way that will keep the kids engaged the entire time.
I love easy crafts ideas that are intriguing and fun. I am not the most crafty of the mums but I appreciate the simple ones.
Sometimes I struggle to engage in play with my daughter, so these easy and interactive ideas are my go to, especially with my daughter that is a ball of energy!
If you relate to this, keep reading to learn how to make this super simple and entertaining catapult with your little one for endless fun!
How to make a catapult with popsicle sticks
Makes 1 catapult
Supplies:
- 9 popsicle or craft sticks
- 5 rubber bands
- 1 plastic spoon
- Small ball to fit inside the spoon (we used foam balls)
Directions:
Attach the spoon to one of the craft sticks using two rubber bands. You need to make sure that the bend in the spoon handle is over the end of the craft stick.
One rubber band will need to be at the base of the handle, and the other, about ½ inch – 1 inch from the end of the craft stick (depending on what size stick you are using)
Secure 7 of the craft sticks together using two of the rubber bands.
Place one craft stick underneath the craft stick with the spoon attached to it, and secure them together with a rubber band.
Gently separate the two craft sticks, and push the stack of 7 craft sticks through them.
Place a small ball into the spoon, and press down on the tip of the spoon to launch.
If your kids love STEM challenges like this, they may also enjoy this roller coaster STEM activity.
What do we learn from making a catapult?
This activity is full of learning experiences. From assembling the catapult you will help your kid to refine their motor skills.
Once assembled, they can train aim and learn about trajectory and force. It is a simple and exciting way to introduce the idea of physics to your little genius.
They can experience with different items with different shapes and weights. You can have different size containers and distance them to work as targets.
The possibilities are many and is guaranteed fun. We hope you enjoy this activity as much as we did.
More STEM activities for kids
- LEGO STEM Activities for Preschoolers
- Growing Gummy Bears Kitchen Science Experiment for Kids
- Making a Lemon Clock
- Secret Coding Picture Halloween Activity for Kids
- Big Hero 6 Science Experiments : Fred’s Super Hero Invisible Ink
- 7 Hands-On STEAM Lesson Plans for the Home Classroom
- Building 2D & 3D Shapes with Craft Sticks
Share
Please share this with your friends so they can also enjoy this easy craft with other parents!
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.
This is such a great stem idea! I’m always looking for these.