Get Ready to Build!

This fun and creative activity challenges you to design and build the tallest free-standing tower using spaghetti and marshmallows! It’s a great way to learn about engineering, teamwork, and problem-solving while having lots of hands-on fun. Are you ready to become an arKIDect and build an amazing tower? Grab your spaghetti and marshmallows, and let’s get started!

What You’ll Need (per builder):

• 30 pieces of spaghetti
• 20 small marshmallows
• 1 large marshmallow
• A measuring tape or ruler (to see how tall your tower is!)

Your Mission: Build the tallest free-standing tower that can hold a large marshmallow at the very top. The tallest tower wins the challenge! Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Gather Your Materials: Each builder gets 30 spaghetti sticks, 20 small marshmallows, and 1 large marshmallow.
2. Plan Your Design: Take a minute to sketch your tower idea. Think about strong shapes like triangles and squares that can help keep your structure sturdy.
3. Build a Solid Base: Start by creating a stable base using spaghetti and marshmallows. A strong foundation is key to going tall!
4. Go Up, Up, and Up! Add layers and connections to make your tower taller. Test the stability as you go.
5. Top It Off: Gently place the large marshmallow on top without knocking your tower over!
6. Measure and Celebrate: Use a measuring tape or ruler to see whose tower is the tallest. The winner is crowned the arKIDect Champion!

Top Tips from arKIDect Pros:

• Build a strong base before going higher.
• Triangles are super stable—try them in your design!
• Use extra marshmallows to make connections stronger.
• Test each layer to make sure it’s sturdy before moving up.

Why This Activity is Awesome:

• Creativity and Design Thinking: Encourages kids to brainstorm and test ideas.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Helps children learn to troubleshoot and improve their designs.
• Teamwork and Communication: Ideal for group collaboration and sharing ideas.
• STEM Learning: Introduces engineering concepts like stability, balance, and structure.
• Hands-On Fun: Keeps kids engaged while developing fine motor skills.

Think Like an arKIDect!

1. What was the coolest part of your design?
2. What was tricky, and how did you fix it?
3. How would you make your tower even better next time?

Now grab your materials and start building—let’s see who can build the tallest, sturdiest tower! Have fun, arKIDects   Activity Facebook Link Click for More DIY Activities