Junk Build Challenge

• 

• A collection of clean junk materials such as:

  • Cardboard boxes (small and medium)

  • Toilet rolls

  • Bottle caps

  • Ice block sticks

  • String or wool

  • Fabric scraps

  • Paper plates and cups

  • Egg cartons

  • Plastic containers

  • Newspapers/magazines

• Tape (masking tape works best)

• Glue sticks

• Scissors

• Markers or paint for decorating (optional)

• Tables or floor space to work on

1. Set Up:

   • Create a central "junk supply station" where all materials are laid out for kids to choose from.

   • Divide tamariki into teams (2–4 per team) or allow solo builds if numbers allow.

2. Challenge Brief:

   • Explain the goal: Create the tallest, strongest, or most creative structure possible using only the materials provided!

   • You can choose a specific challenge (e.g., "Build a tower that can hold a soft toy" or "Design a futuristic vehicle") or leave it open-ended for pure invention.

3. Building Time:

   • Set a timer for 30–45 minutes for the construction phase.

   • Encourage tamariki to plan quickly, sketch if they want, and then get building.

   • Remind them to problem-solve as they go—testing and adjusting is part of the fun!

4. Presentation:

   • Each team or child presents their creation to the group:

     • What is it called?

     • What does it do?

     • What was tricky or surprising about building it?

Other Information:

• Inclusion: Support younger or less confident makers by suggesting starting points (e.g., “Try making a tower first” or “Use a big base for strength”).

• Weather: If it’s sunny, this is a great outdoor activity too!