Simple Machines

Simple machines are everywhere.  We use them everyday, without even thinking about it.  We often take them for granted but they are crucial in simplifying our lives. 

I certainly don't believe that we should be drilling our children on the different simple machines and their functions but I do think they are fun and important to point out, throughout play.  Children use simple machines everyday, just as adults do, so focusing on them occasionally can give them more meaning.   

Today, we played with flour, sifters, egg beaters, and monster trucks.  I was noticing how many simple machines were involved in these items so I thought I would put a blog post together, displaying many of the times we have explored simple machines. 

Egg beaters, sifters, and monster trucks.

Wheels and Axles and Levers

 Moving a teeter totter up the steps takes a lot of effort but pulling it up an inclined plane makes the job much easier.

The children were even able to pull a heavy vehicle up the inclined plane.

The next video, you will have to click here to see the use of levers, screws, and wedges as we break up a dry chunk of clay.  

Another example of a lever and probably an example of risky play, as well.  You can see it here.

The kitchen (pretend or real) is a fabulous place to explore simple machines.  How many simple machines can you spot? 

Two of our favorite art mediums are our large tape dispenser and scissors.  Both are simple machines. 

Tools = Screws, Gears, Levers, Wedges

We do have a pulley on our play structure but I couldn't find any photos.  This is a pulley system that is simply a rope over the branch of a tree.

The examples of simple machines, that children encounter daily, are vast and I am showing just a tiny sample but I think it's interesting to think about just how many items we use each day that represent simple machines.  

Do you have examples you would like to share?