My child built a wheelchair out of magnet tiles

Art

• The child learned about shapes and how to create a sturdy structure by building the wheelchair out of magnet tiles.
• They explored color combinations and patterns through the arrangement of the tiles.
• They practiced fine motor skills by carefully placing the tiles to construct the wheelchair.
• The child also learned about proportion and balance in the design of the wheelchair.

English Language Arts

• The child can write a descriptive paragraph or a short story about their experience building the wheelchair.
• They can create labels for the different parts of the wheelchair using their vocabulary words.
• They can practice reading aloud their writing or explaining their project to others, improving their oral communication skills.
• They can engage in a class discussion about the importance of inclusivity and accessibility when talking about the wheelchair as a means of transportation.

History

• The child can learn about the history of wheelchairs and how they have evolved over time.
• They can research and discuss the advancements in mobility aids for individuals with disabilities throughout history.
• They can explore famous inventors or innovators who have contributed to the development of wheelchairs.
• The child can also learn about the importance of accessible design in creating a more inclusive society.

Math

• The child can count and sort the magnet tiles used in building the wheelchair.
• They can measure the dimensions of the wheelchair using non-standard units of measurement like their hand spans or their feet.
• They can explore patterns and symmetry in the arrangement of the tiles on the wheelchair.
• They can discuss concepts of weight and balance by experimenting with different quantities of tiles on each side of the wheelchair.

Music

• The child can create a musical composition or a song inspired by the experience of building the wheelchair.
• They can use rhythm instruments or their own body percussion to create sounds that mimic the movement of a wheelchair.
• They can listen to music from different cultures or time periods that reflects the theme of mobility or accessibility.
• They can explore how different musical elements can evoke emotions related to movement and freedom.

Physical Education

• The child can discuss the importance of physical activity and mobility for overall health and well-being.
• They can practice different movements that individuals using wheelchairs perform, such as maneuvering, turning, and stopping.
• They can engage in role-play activities to better understand the challenges and experiences of individuals using wheelchairs.
• They can participate in inclusive games or sports that involve individuals with diverse abilities.

Science

• The child can explore the concept of magnetism and how the magnet tiles stick together to form the wheelchair.
• They can investigate the strength of different magnets and how it affects the stability of the wheelchair structure.
• They can experiment with different surfaces or materials to determine the best environment for the magnets to adhere to.
• They can learn about friction and how it plays a role in the movement of wheelchairs.

Social Studies

• The child can learn about different types of disabilities and the challenges individuals face when it comes to accessibility.
• They can discuss the importance of inclusivity and how designing for accessibility benefits everyone in society.
• They can explore the concept of empathy and understanding by putting themselves in the shoes of someone who uses a wheelchair.
• They can discuss laws and regulations that promote accessibility and the rights of individuals with disabilities.

Continued Development Tip: Encourage the child to further explore the concept of accessibility by designing and building other assistive devices using different materials. They can also research and interview individuals who use wheelchairs to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences and needs.

Book Recommendations

• Rolling Along: The Story of Taylor and His Wheelchair by Jamee Riggio Heelan: This book tells the story of Taylor, a boy with cerebral palsy, and his journey with his wheelchair, illustrating the importance of accessibility and inclusion.
• Whoever You Are by Mem Fox: This book celebrates diversity and emphasizes that, regardless of physical differences, all children share the same hopes, dreams, and emotions.
• Through Grandpa's Eyes by Patricia MacLachlan: This heartwarming story follows a young boy as he experiences the world from his grandfather's perspective, who uses a wheelchair, highlighting the power of empathy and understanding.