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Cardboard Arcade
New activity
This activity is more of a program idea - have your patrons get creative by using cardboard to create their own arcade! Watch the videos for inspiration and ideas, and visit the "related links" for more information.
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How-to Video
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Related Programming Resources
| Add a Tech Twist | Optional: Try using mini-LED bulbs and small batteries to add some excitement to your arcade! |
| Hints for uses in your library |
This is an idea for a long, multi-hour or multi-day program. It is an open-ended activity, and would be good for tweens.
You should really emphasize the engineering design process throughout this program. The arcade games must be "play-tested" multiple times! Tips: - Tickets or prizes may be distracting and time-consuming for the patrons -Games must be heavily play-tested and revised -Games should have thoughtful, complicated build elements - The games should be somewhat complicated to build, but an easy, fun experience for players -Design FIRST, on paper. Blueprint with dimensions and measurements, top, bottom, side views and cross-section if needed. |
| Related Links |
Build a Pinball Game
Caine's Arcade Caine's Arcade 2 Daddy Engineer: Cardboard Playhouse |
| Originating Source | PBS Design Squad |
| Related Books [Suggest a book] |
These children’s books all deal with various themes involved in engineering such as the engineering design process, specific projects such as building bridges or houses, and perseverance through failure.
• Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty • Iggy Peck, Architect by Andrea Beaty • Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty • This Bridge Will Not Be Gray by Dave Eggers • Cross a Bridge by Ryan Ann Hunter • What To Do With an Idea? By Kobi Yamada • Ish by Peter H. Reynolds • Stuck by Oliver Jeffers • The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds • The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires • How a House is Built by Gail Gibbons |