Create an simple craft stick catapult. This fun STEM activity will have kids developing listening and problem solving skills and when they are done they will have a fun new toy they made themselves.

Catapult Supplies

• 10 large craft sticks
• 5 rubber bands
• one plastic spoon

How to Make a Craft Stick Catapult

To make a craft stick catapult start by stacking eight of the ten craft sticks into a pile and wrap a rubber band around both side of the eight stacked sticks. You should have a thick secure stack of sticks.

Next, stack the remaining two sticks and wrap a rubber band around one end leaving the other end unbound. Then slide the open end of the two sticks around the large stack of sticks.

Wrap a rubber band around the two stacks diagonally in a criss-cross pattern so that the sticks stay together. Then place the plastic spoon on the top craft stick and secure it with a rubber band.

Launch away! Find some pompoms, cotton balls, beads, or whatever ammunition you have on hand. Put it in the spoon, pull the spoon back and let it fly!

See the Video above for a step by step visual tutorial.

Make it a Catapult Challenge

Take this activity to the next level with a catapult challenge. Ask kids to alter their catapult to make an object, such as a pompom or small marble, travel 10 feet.

Allow kids to use extra craft sticks, rubber bands, and spoons as needed. Encourage them to launch from different angles and locations. Ask to make changes to the catapult such as adding length to the lever, or making the catapult taller.

This activity can keep kids entertained for hours. Children enjoy the challenge and the feeling of accomplishment when they are successful in that challenge.

Happy Engineering!