Activity: Straw Rocket Launch
Materials needed:
A drinking straw
Construction paper or lightweight cardstock
Tape
Scissors
Markers or crayons
Safety goggles (optional but recommended)
Instructions:
Begin by cutting out a triangle shape from the construction paper or cardstock. This will be the main body of the rocket. Help the child to make it about 4-5 inches tall and 2-3 inches wide.
Encourage the child to decorate the rocket body with markers or crayons. They can draw windows, flames, or any other design they like.
Once the rocket body is decorated, roll it into a cone shape and secure it with tape. This will be the nose of the rocket.
Cut small triangular fins out of the remaining construction paper or cardstock. You’ll need three fins for stability.
Attach the fins to the bottom of the rocket body using tape. Space them evenly around the circumference.
Now, it’s time to launch the rocket! Have the child put on safety goggles to protect their eyes.
Ask the child to place the straw at the bottom of the rocket, with the open end of the straw facing downwards.
Hold the rocket in one hand, making sure it’s pointed away from people and objects.
Instruct the child to blow forcefully into the straw, launching the rocket into the air.
Encourage the child to experiment with different blowing strengths to see how high they can make the rocket fly.