A catapult made from a spoon and building blocks is a perfect preschool physics experiment because the relationship between input and output is immediate and dramatic: push down on the spoon handle, and something flies through the air. Children can feel the force they apply, watch the projectile arc, and measure how far it lands — connecting muscular effort to distance traveled in a way that makes force and motion concepts physically intuitive.

Simple Spoon Catapult

• Tape a plastic spoon to the top of a stack of building blocks or LEGO bricks so the spoon extends past the edge.
• Rubber-band the spoon handle to the block stack for stability.
• Place a pom-pom or marshmallow in the spoon bowl.
• Press the spoon handle down and release — the pom-pom launches.

Variables to Test

• Force: Press the spoon down further — does the pom-pom go further?
• Weight: Use a heavier object — does it go further or shorter?
• Spoon size: Does a larger spoon launch further than a smaller one?
• Angle: What happens if the catapult is tilted slightly?

Measurement Extension

Mark where the pom-pom lands with a sticky note each time. After several launches, measure the distance from the catapult to each landing point. Graph the results: "When I pressed harder, the pom-pom landed on the far note. When I pressed lightly, it landed on the near note." This is a complete experimental procedure at age-appropriate scale.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is safe to launch in a preschool catapult?

Soft, lightweight projectiles only: pom-poms, mini marshmallows, cotton balls, small balled-up pieces of aluminum foil. Never use hard objects, marbles, or anything that could injure a child if it hits someone. Establish a clear "launch zone" with a designated target area so all launches go in the same direction. Always have all children behind the catapult before launching — never in front of or beside the launch path.

Related science: Roll Balls Down Ramps | Paper Cup Tower | Build a Windmill