My child attended an introduction to engineering class where the assignment was to create a project that was food related. He, along with his adult guide, built an automatic dog feeder utilizing levers, a chair recliner mechanism, a wooden base and food basic made out out of a 10 gallon container. The product also is connected to Amazon Alexa and will automatically initiate upon voice command of "Feed the Dogs".

English

• The student practiced technical writing skills by creating instructions for building the automatic dog feeder.
• Created a voice command for the automatic dog feeder, demonstrating effective use of language and communication.
• Explored vocabulary related to engineering and technology while discussing the project with the adult guide.

Math

• Calculated the leverage and force required to lift the 10-gallon container using the lever system.
• Utilized measurements and geometry to design the structure of the automatic dog feeder, ensuring stability and functionality.
• Learned about ratios and proportions while determining the appropriate size and capacity of the food basin.

Science

• Applied the knowledge of simple machines, specifically levers, in building the automatic dog feeder.
• Explored the concept of energy transfer through the chair recliner mechanism and its application in the project.
• Understood the principles of automation and technology through the integration of Amazon Alexa for voice command activation.

For continued development related to the activity, encourage the child to explore more advanced concepts in engineering and technology. They can experiment with different materials and mechanisms to enhance the functionality of the automatic dog feeder, such as incorporating sensors for portion control or exploring alternate power sources for automation.

Related Educational Toys and Games

• LittleBits Star Wars Droid Inventor Kit by LittleBits: This kit allows kids to build their own R2-D2 droid using electronic circuits and programming, fostering creativity and engineering skills.
• ThinkFun Gravity Maze Marble Run by ThinkFun: A logic game that challenges kids to build and design marble run structures while developing critical thinking and spatial reasoning skills.
• K'NEX Education - Intro to Simple Machines by K'NEX: Engaging construction set that introduces students to the concept of simple machines through hands-on building and experimentation.