You don’t need fancy parts and tools or advanced knowledge in science and robotics to build your own robot. In fact, even the little guys can tackle this super simple activity and engineer their own toy robot, that draws pictures to boot! This is one of those all-round STEM activities too (science, technology, engineering and maths) - the knowledge required through STEM activities is invaluable and will assist your kids as they enter into adulthood and the working world.

While some of the STEM activities I have shared in the past are more focused at toddlers and preschoolers, this one is a little more challenging, making it more suitable for primary school-goers or high school students.

Do you want to make your own colouring robot just like this one?

This is a safe experiment to do but depending on the age of the engineer, adult supervision might be required, since some of the instructions could be a little tricky.

Before you begin, gather the following:

• A motor taken from a toy or a DC 12V 10000RPM Mini Magnetic Motor which can be purchased online of from most DIY stores, even Amazon. It will be easier if the wiring is already attached to this.
• A 9 Volt battery
• A hot glue gun with glues sticks
• 4 markers, each one a different colour
• A sheet of paper
• An electric Alligator clip
• A screwdriver and sharp screw
• A plastic cup
• Insulation tape

Build your colouring robot with these steps:

1. Using your screw and screwdriver, pierce a hole into the bottom of the plastic cup.
2. Turn your cup upside down and then insert the pole from the motor through the hole you have made, so that the motor now sits on top of the turned over cup (with wires exposed). Now glue the motor into place using your glue gun.
3. Glue the battery on to the cup too, place it on its side and position it right next to the motor.
4. Connect the wires to the alligator clip using your insulation tape.
5. Glue the Sharpies on to the cup, to create a rocket-like effect.
6. Place your “robot” onto the paper, removing the lids of your Sharpies before you do so.
7. Connect the motor to the battery using the alligator clip.

Watch as your robot vibrates and jumps, leaving colourful marks on the paper as it automatically moves around.

** Use this image to get a good idea of how to connect the different parts:

 Image Source 

Many kids potter around with their toys, often taking them a part to figure out how they work, and as they get older, they sometimes find ways of putting different pieces together to create a new toy or gadget. An activity like this will stimulate a student's interest in science, technology, engineering and maths - an excellent recipe for engaging young minds! 

Are you ready to DO THE ROBOT?

Much love - @sweetpea

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