Little Discoveries
Fix-It Workshop
Take apart an old broken gadget to see how it works.
Ages 13 to 15
45 minutes
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Get ready
5 minutes. Find a safe gadget and a screwdriver set.
What you’ll need
An old unplugged toy, keyboard or radio, screwdrivers and a tray for parts.
Let’s play
1. Remove any batteries and check the gadget is unplugged.
2. Unscrew the case and lay out each part on the tray.
3. Find the motor, gears or circuit board and guess what each does.
4. Try to put it back together, or save parts for a project.
Your part in the adventure
Hold the flashlight and ask what each part does.
What they’re discovering
They’re learning how machines work and practicing patience with small tools.
Before you begin
Never open microwaves, old TVs or anything with large capacitors. Wear eye protection.
Keep the idea going
Use the parts to build a sculpture.
Every child is different. Adjust activities for their age and abilities, and stay close by. These are play ideas, not medical or developmental advice.