Cane Suspension Bridge

Resources
5 1m cane, string and tape, newspapers, 2 tables

Method: Prepare before craft Slice the canes vertically so that you get 2/3 slices per cane like Fig.1 Decide whether the bridge will be designed by the children or if you want them to be a bit creative Get some pictures of a suspension bridge so that the kids will picture what they will do. Prepare 2 tables so that they are about 1cane ½ away from each other.  The bridge will connect the 2 tables. Craft Method: First prepare the skeleton using canes.  Check that the structure is steady before continuing. Then make the bridge’s suspensions using string. You can pave the road by using newspapers.

Results: 

I think that the boys found it very interesting to construct something out of some useless material.  At first half of the kids did not want to try because they wanted to play football but after having created a part of the bridge with the other half, the others got interested and started one on their own. 

The aim of this craft was to give some self-confidence to the children and to make them appreciate their work.  It also helps them to develop practical skills such as making knots and encourages team work.  When the bridge was almost ready the children looked enthusiastic to see the final product, which was of their own making.   

The craft is very interesting especially for the boys but there can be parts when the children can get frustrated, especially when trying to tie corners together.

Improvements:  

Maybe bridge parts can be constructed by different groups as it can get a bit overcrowded near the bridge.