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Discovery Kit Guides

Descriptions and resources for available kits to check out through PPLD

About This Kit

The Ultimate Fort Builder comes with 45 sturdy poles and 25 connectors that snap together easily. Kids can design the shape and size of their fort, snap together the pieces to make the frame, and then finish building by placing a covering over the framework (you supply the sheet or blanket!). Then they can crawl inside for hours of imaginary play. The poles measure 16 inches.

A building guide introduces how to snap together and take apart the pieces, and provides helpful hints about how to use the connectors to make different types of angles. The guide also includes step-by-step directions for making a caste. a house, an arch, an igloo, and a rocket, along with visual schematics for even more structures.

Recommended for ages 4 - 11

 

How to Check Out This Kit

Discovery Kits can be reserved in the catalog for pickup at any PPLD location. They check out for seven days but can be renewed as long as there are no holds.

Due to the size of the kits, all Discovery Kits must be returned to library staff at the main desk during regular business hours. Please do not return this item to a book drop.

Learning Outcomes

Playing and experimenting with the Ultimate Fort Builder, will encourage users to do the following:

  • Explore basic engineering, math, and design skills
  • Develop problem-solving skills
  • Use creativity to come up with different designs
  • Think about the reasons for building a shelter and the benefits that different structures provide
  • Develop physical dexterity
  • Encourage imaginary play/ free play

Getting Started

Unpack all of the pieces. Look at the "Building Basics" in the activity guide. Try snapping together a pole and connector (insert pole by pushing it straight (not at an angle) into a hole in the connector. You should hear a snap. Not try to remove the piece by grasping the pole in one hand and the connector in the other. Pull the pole straight out (not at an angle) to avoid damage.

Check out the helpful hints in the guide about how to assemble the poles and connectors to create different angles and shapes. You can try one of the featured projects, or jump right in and create your own design for a frame.