This is what people in the field of creativity call an “open-ended problem.” That is, it doesn’t have just one right answer. In fact, there are limitless possibilities. If your child is unfamiliar with the uncharted territory of open-ended problems, you may want to help him get started thinking creatively as you do this exercise.
You’ll need five objects that can be used to construct something. They should be disposable items. For instance, we decided to use:
- a cardboard tube
- an envelope
- a straw
- a plastic egg
- a cap from an orange juice carton
Feel free to come up with your own list. Try to have a variety of shapes, as well as things that can be manipulated. We also decided to have available scissors, tape and a couple of markers.
You’ve got your pile of stuff. Now ask the question: What can it be?
Begin to imagine. Brainstorm possibilities. Discuss it together. Put things together and ask what it looks like. Let your mind see the range of combinations possible. I sat down with my kids one lazy afternoon, and here are our solutions.
The Legendary Hopping Bird. I’m told that when it gets angry, it doesn’t just get a little mad — it
gets hopping mad!
Bugzilla. He has no fear of flyswatters.
Amazing Duck Man
and, finally …
… a flower!
Part of the great fun of any open-ended activities is enjoying the range
of solutions. It’s so valuable for kids (and adults) to see that with the imagination, there isn’t just one right answer.
— Bruce Van Patter
