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Peas and Sticks

the ultimate construction activity

Short sticks of a uniform length with pointed ends are inserted in to peas, which have been softened by soaking in water. Because the sticks can be inserted anywhere on the surface of the peas, a child can create an endless variety of complex structures.

The combination of sharp points and small parts means that children must be careflully watched during this activity. The fine finger movements and discipline developed through play with the earlier gifts are essential for this activity.

Pea and stick work provides the conceptual foundation for building many structures from molecular models of DNA to the geodesic domes of Buckminster Fuller.

other materials

Wax was used instead of peas or later plasticene rolled into balls. Metal sticks inserted in small corks were also popular.

simplified versions

became been popular toys. Longer plastic, wooden or metal rods without pointed ends are inserted in sockets of connector units. While these toys are safer for children to play with they lack the flexibility of the original

Zome System

With these colorful plastic rods and white connector balls children can explore the interconnections of art, math, and nature through building simple shapes.

Dip them in soapy water to make geometric shaped bubbles. more about Zome

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Froebel Gifts . introduction . list

Initiative can neither be created nor delegated. It can only spring from the self determining individual, who decides that the wisdom of others is not always better than his own.
Buckminster Fuller