As we reflect on gathering around the table with our families this week for Thanksgiving, we’re bringing you a November STEAM activity that is all about the table. You and your child will have tons of fun with this simple – but not-so-simple – engineering challenge!
As always, before your STEAM activity, take a seat at the table to read a great book together. We recommend Our Table, by Peter H. Reynolds. This is the story of Violet, who misses when her family used to gather at the table for meals and memories. As family members become distracted by screens, the table shrinks and eventually disappears.
To bring her family back together, Violet gets them to help build a new table, creating a stronger, more beautiful place for them to share stories and make new memories.
Now that you’ve got your inspiration, it’s time to build and learn together! For this activity, all you’ll need is 5 sheets of paper and some tape. Your challenge – should you choose to accept it – is to design and build a table that can hold 4 to 5 books. Keep in mind that a sturdy support on the base of the table will be the key to building a strong structure. Give lots of thought on how you will fold, roll, or cut your paper to create your sturdy table legs. Click here for some extra engineering inspiration.
As always, be as creative as you want, and have lots of fun learning together!