build with toothpicks and marshmallows

This is an excellent, open ended activity for kids of all ages. I actually think it would be great fun as an after dinner activity with adults. All you need are toothpicks and marshmallows, things you might have in your pantry right now. I try to give minimal guidance during projects like this. I listen and watch and am amazed at the connections and discoveries. What started as simple shapes morphed into museums, dumb bells, and giant squids. Representation aside, the engineering ideas were flowing too. There were discussions about stabilization of structures as well as compression and expansion.  The kinetic potential was explored as cranes and earth monitors we built.  Every age can build and play with this, and maybe snack a bit too. It is a great activity to have tucked away for rainy (or super hot) days.