Trampolines, Popsicles, earmuffs and Braille writing are all examples of things invented by youth. School kids are often overflowing with ideas for new things that could make life better. If your child has been given the task of inventing something for a school project, there are a number of ideas to consider that can help the process move along smoothly.
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New Uses for Objects
If your child is having trouble coming up with an idea, encourage him look at ordinary objects and think of ways to improve them. An invention does not have to be completely new. Many of the world's best inventions come from thinking of ways to make an existing object function in a better way. Have a brainstorming session with your child by listing off a few common items he likes to use and have him write down an idea for each one.
For a teacher who is covering a lesson on inventing for her classroom, have the class work together. Divide the class up into several small groups of three to four children. Give each group a basket of things such as craft supplies, blocks, plastic containers and other random items. Encourage the groups to come up with a new invention using the items in the basket. This activity promotes creative thinking, collaboration and teamwork. Have each group share the invention with the class upon completion.
As a parent of a child who's been tasked with the assignment of inventing something, the temptation might be there to step in and help with every possible aspect. Children have a distinctive perspective of things and how they work and are usually quite creative. Encourage them along the way during the invention process but don't take over. To children, anything is possible and adults are often quick to shoot down an idea because it sounds crazy. Resist this temptation and let the child's imagination run wild. You never know just what she'll come up with.
Presenting the Invention
Build a model of the invention to present for the school assignment or invention fair. If an invention that a school-age kid has come up with is too big to implement on your own, it can still be used as a school project. Instead of building an exact prototype, draw pictures and diagrams that explain how the invention will work. Type up a detailed written explanation of the object, what purpose it serves, and the benefits it gives.
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