My kids went to public school for a few years and it was exhausting. The rush to get them to school (work all day), rush to pick them up, and then the homework dash. Nothing would cause you to reach for the chocolate or wine faster than a dreaded project.

As a homeschooler, it is a totally different experience. We do lots of project based learning. The problem is that unless it is assigned by our once a week tutorial, there aren’t a lot of people to share it with. It is a little deflating when only mom and dad get to see your hard work. I have a solution.

I am hosting a virtual leprechaun challenge. This is open to all kids (not just homeschoolers). Your kids build the project and make a video. This is a STEM based project that focuses on engineering using simple machines. The goal is to create a complicated contraption to complete a simple task – Rube Goldberg style. The result is a fun and inspiring task. The kids will be posting videos in a closed facebook group of their project.

The 2017 Leprechaun Trap Challenge is starting now. I am charging a small fee in order to be able to offer prizes for each age group. The fee is $3/family. The prizes will be determined by the number of families that enter.

I have created 4 age groups

4-7 : No simple machines required

8-11: 2 simple machines required

12-14: 3 simple machines required

15+: 3 simple machines required

Rules

1	Your trap must contain simple machines (different requirements for each age group)
2	Your trap must have a trigger mechanism (you cannot touch the object that touches the leprechaun or the object that touches that object)
3	Your trap must only capture and not harm the leprechaun
4	You must complete the trap without guidance from the adult in the house
5	An adult can assist in cutting and other manual labor, but must be directed by the trap designer
6	You may work in small teams of 2-4. If you are competing, please consider the age ranges for competition.

How do I sign up?

It is really simple. There is a 2017 Leprechaun Trap Challenge in the shop. Once you pay the entry fee, you will gain instant access to the rules, video requirements, and dates. I will send you a link to join the Facebook group and rubrics that will be used to judge the traps will be made available shortly.

Your Kid Isn’t Interested In Making a Trap?

I am also looking for judges! I need several kids and adults to help judge. Fill out the form below and I will be in touch with information about judging.