Cardboard Challenge

Use a box to think outside-the-box! Work with your child to construct a one-of-a-kind creation using cardboard boxes of various sizes, and then make up a narrative to go with it.

Learning Goals:

• Be Curious
• Learn to Collaborate
• Come Up with Ideas and Try Them Out

Materials Required:

• Cardboard boxes of different sizes and shapes
• Scissors
• Masking tape or painter’s tape
• Household recyclables (e.g. egg cartons, plastic containers, etc.)
• Craft supplies for decorating (e.g. markers, pipe cleaners, buttons, aluminum foil, etc.)

Instructions:

• Together with your child, brainstorm ideas for a cardboard creation. If you need help getting started, consider these questions:
  • What could the creation do?
  • What could the creation look like?
  • What size box do you want to start with?
• Build your creation using the various boxes, recyclable materials, and tape as needed.
• Let your child decorate their creation using the craft materials you’ve collected.
• Encourage your child to create a narrative to go along with their creation. Ask them to consider questions like, What does it do? Who can use it? How does it work?

Tips for Adults:

• Start with structural materials like firm cardboard pieces.  Once the basic design is done, add flourishes using materials such as paint, fabric, paper, or washi tape.
• Follow your child’s lead and interest: this project could take ten minutes, or it might stretch on for weeks.  Allowing your child to return to their work over time helps deepen their learning.
• Don’t do it for them! It’s ok to let your child’s idea fail- this provides important opportunities to reflect, learn and grow.

Support BADM during COVID-19