Newspaper tower challenge
Structural engineering, triangular bracing, resource economy
Duration
30 min
Steps
5 simple steps
Materials
2 household items
Why this matters
Experiencing failure and redesign in engineering challenges builds cognitive grit and spatial problem-solving.
What you need
- 4 sheets of newspaper
- A 12-inch strip of tape
How to do it
Place 4 newspaper sheets and a single strip of tape on the table.
State the engineering challenge: build the tallest tower possible without leaning against a wall.
Experiment with rolling newspaper tightly into sturdy cylindrical pillars.
Discover that triangular bases resist wobble far better than flat squares.
Measure height with a tape measure when complete!
Finished doing this activity?
Mark it done when you and your child have tried it.
Parent tip · What to say
“When the first attempt buckles, frame it as data: 'The base was too soft! What geometry makes structures rigid?'”
What your child practices
Structural compression vs. tension, resource optimization, and architectural resilience.
Helpful related guide
Family life
Screens with intention: a framework, not a ban
A calmer, more honest conversation about children and screens — and how to make peace with your family's choices.
Related activities to try next
See all →Living room obstacle course blueprint
Cartography, spatial planning, kinetic endurance
Historical coin rubbing patterns
Numismatics, fine shading pressure, tactile patterns
Nature scavenger walk
Observation, outdoors, connection, sensory vocabulary