I think too often we get stuck on coming up with engineering projects that have supply lists and tools. An engineer’s most important tool is their imagination. Innovation can be found by looking at the same objects in new ways.
Many of my favorite engineering projects are creating clothing costumes. Our closets can be full of inspiration. When we ask questions like, “How can I wear this piece of clothing in a different way?” or “What are the best options to make a cape?” we’re releasing our inner engineer. Towels, bedsheets, and dishwashing gloves take on a new character when we loan them out to our imagination.
We can ask questions about the items of clothing itself:
- How many different ways could I use a belt in my costume?
- What if I cannot put my shirt on by pulling it over my head?
We can ask questions about the things that inspire us:
- What could I use to make a tail?
- What would need to happen to create a successful elephant costume?
We can also ask questions about our goals for our costumes:
- What is the best way to stay warm outside if I do not want to put on a coat?
- How could I choose colors that help me camouflage myself?
- What costume is best if I want to be able to run super fast?
All of these questions (and more!) are engineering kinds of questions. If you’d like some more insight about how you can help your kids ask great engineering questions, check out my free guide Every Parent’s Guide to Creative Projects.
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