Circuit block progression
I recently noticed that I have greatly changed my facilitation methods for circuit blocks. When I first started at MAKESHOP, I ran circuit blocks like a demonstration. I’d show kids how each of the various types of components worked, and then ask if they wanted to play with any of them. This didn’t last long as a style, because a…
Ready to Glow!
Every month we have a different theme, putting in activities that are new and different. December’s theme is GLOW. We’re preparing a whole lot of new activities like blacklight drawing and glowing putty, and keeping in some favorites like light painting and stop motion! We might even have real glowing mushrooms (proven non-toxic non-poisonous.) There will also be GLOW activities…
World Maker Faire!
Makeshop was kind enough to send me to the World Maker Faire at the New York Hall of Science in New York City! It was pretty awesome. Two days, tons of people, projects, and ideas! Stuff: The sheer amount of stuff there was dizzying. Tons of 3d printers of various types, qualities, and prices, whirring away at whatever. A 3-D…
Boomerangs. They’re coming back.
I love boomerangs. No matter how much I understand the physics behind them, there’s still something magical and artistic about them. I’ve made a few at home, but wanted to make some with kids here, and no visitor would be up for the many hours of sawing, sanding, testing, sanding, finishing, sanding, and other frustration that comes with making a…
Monster Mash
A guest maker, Adam King, who makes theatrical monster masks, visited MAKESHOP in October to sculpt one of his awesome creatures! Amazing to think that it started as a lump of clay. Here it is finished! And here are some of his friends.
Bows, a little closer.
Kevin mentioned this project and I thought I’d go into a little more depth, because I’m a nut for archery. When I was a kid I made all sorts of bows. Some out of yardsticks that snapped immediately (to my parents’ irritation) some out of sticks that did the same, and eventually more sophisticated ones out of bamboo, pvc, and…
Makeshop Guest: Leah Beuchley
This week Leah Buechley came to visit! It was exciting. A little introduction: Leah Buechley was a major contributor to the development of the Lilypad Arduino, and is a professor at the MIT Media Lab . Her research group… “…integrates high and low technological materials, processes, and cultures. Our primary aim is to engage diverse audiences in designing and building their…