Try This STEM Activity for Kids: Popsicle Stick Ferris Wheel
Welcome to a hands-on project that combines fun, learning, and a touch of engineering! This DIY Popsicle Stick Ferris Wheel project is perfect for young minds that are curious about STEM–science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and uses just a few household supplies. For more STEM-related activities, check out our 90+ stem activities for kids in preschool through first grade.
What You’ll Need to Create a Popsicle Stick Ferris Wheel:
- Cardboard
- Popsicle sticks
- A glue gun or white glue
- Skewers
Instructions for Making Your Popsicle Stick Ferris Wheel:
Step 1: Create the Base of the Wheels
Start be deciding if you’ll make a one-wheel or two-wheel Ferris wheel. Take a piece of cardboard and, with a grown-up’s help, cut out on or two small, perfect circles depending on the number of Ferris wheels you’ll be making. Use the skewer to poke holes through the center of the cardboard.
Step 2: Form the Wheels
Then, glue popsicle sticks in a radial pattern on this cardboard base. Attach the popsicle sticks to each other for stability.
Step 3: Create a Wheel Stand
Follow the steps in the video and use your popsicle sticks to create a base for the Ferris wheel. Make sure it’s sturdy enough to support the weight and size of the wheel without tipping over.
Step 4: Decorate the Wheel
If you’re going to create a large, one-wheeled Ferris wheel, it’s time to get creative with paint, crayons, plastic gems, etc and decorate it. Then, slide your skewer through the hole in the center piece of cardboard and rest it on the wheel stand. Give your Ferris wheel a spin!
Step 5: Try Making a Larger Wheel
Repeat the above steps to create a second Ferris wheel. Slide the skewer through both wheels and rest it on the wheel stand. You can use the same process from above to decorate your double Ferris wheel.
While constructing this ferris wheel, there’s a wonderful opportunity to discuss the science behind amusement park rides, building a foundational understanding of physics and engineering principles. Consider asking your child the following questions:
- How does a Ferris wheel work?
- What roles do engineers and architects play in creating these structures?
- Can you think of other rides or objects that operate in a similar way to a Ferris wheel?
This project not only ignites curiosity but also provides a foundational understanding of physics and engineering principles.
