Budding builder in the family? Construction mad kids? Just for fun, we thought we’d put together our top 5 construction based activities sites for kids. From building, designing, and learning about machines and structures there’s something for everyone included in the list below! I’ve tried to include a range of sites aimed at pre-schoolers through to older kids.
1. Lego #LetsBuildTogether
Of course, we have to begin with the most popular bricks in the world! Scroll through close-up images and videos of things to make from bits of lego. You don’t need brand new sets for these activities, they are based on all those bits you have in a tub somewhere. Full of gorgeous colours and crisp clean lego images this site is a pleasure to navigate! Just beneath this section, there are 30 ideas for Lego Duplo. Also, for older ones check out the videos with Lego designers Lily and Wes sharing their hints and tips!
https://www.lego.com/en-gb/letsbuildtogether
2. Big Rentz
This site will take you through building crafts and activities from preschoolers through to age 11. Scroll through 13 activities that teach kids about construction, broken down by appropriate age. Each activity includes a free printable that builds on important STEM skills like construction play, engineering, and maths.
https://www.bigrentz.com/blog/construction-activities-for-kids
3. Astrak Group
The Astrak Group supplies parts for construction vehicles. This site doesn’t fail to make it look exciting with fantastic images of bulldozers, diggers, and dumpers! Their page for kids has colouring, puzzle sheets, and even baking recipes. Plus there are two online games to test those building skills!
https://astrakgroup.co.uk/kids
4. The Great Exhibition at Home Challenge
Aimed at children between 9-14, this challenge is inspired by Prince Alberts’s original Great Exhibition! The Exhibition showcased the most exciting technology and inventions from 1851, and children across the country are invited to Create a Great Exhibition in their own home! This year’s challenge wants to address the pressing issue ‘ How can engineering help protect the planet?’ The activities span seven weeks but don’t be put off, as you don’t have to complete all of them. Why not download the resource pack and worksheets and enter a one-minute video for the competition!
https://www.big-ideas.org/join1851
5. Engineering@Home
Weekly STEM challenges with new ones announced every Wednesday. In addition, there’s a back catalogue of the previous challenges and videos. Turn materials you would normally send out in your recycling, into something that you can design, build, and test! With their own YouTube channel, you can watch the team talk through the steps and follow along at home. Furthermore, share your creations using their hashtag #EngineeringAtHome!
https://www.smallpeicetrust.org.uk/engineering-at-home
