Build a Catapult with Popsicle Sticks and a Spoon - DIY STEM Project
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About This Project
Sneak some science into your playtime! Kids will love this simple popsicle stick catapult design that combines engineering fun with hands-on experimentation. Using just popsicle sticks, plastic spoons, rubber bands, and aluminum foil, children can build their own launching device and test different projectiles. Experiment with different spoons and materials to see what works best. What will fling the furthest? This project is perfect for introducing basic physics concepts while having a blast!
- STEM Learning Projects
- Physics Experiments
- Engineering Activities
- Science Fair Projects
- Indoor Active Play
Steps
Assemble the base
Take 5 sticks and stack them, securing one end with a rubber band. You'll need to wrap the rubber band around several times to make it nice and secure.
Insert the supporting stick
Slide one more stick between the bottom stick and the rest of the stack. Secure the other end with a rubber band.
Attach the spoon
Place the spoon on top, and attach the end of the spoon to the end of the supporting stick with the last rubber band. Find some pompoms or crumple up small balls of aluminum foil to fling. Small marshmallows are also excellent. Experiment! What else can you find to launch? Do larger or smaller objects fling farther?
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