We developed a popular class called "Toys That Move: The Physics in the Toy
Box," which lets kids examine a wide range of toys and figure out the science
and technology behind them.  We start with really simple toys: balls,
friction toys like Matchbox cars.  Then we move to gears and springs, and let
the kids take them apart to see how these all inter-connect.  We also do one
session on batteries and electricity, and then a final session on
radio-controlled toys.  Almost everything we use in the class can be made or
bought very inexpensively, and since we aim it toward younger children (7-10
year olds), we also can use assistants who needn't have PhDs. in physics in
order to help.   If you're interested, let me know and I can give more
specifics.

Mary Sheila McMahon
Museum of American Heritage
Palo Alto, CA  94028
650/321-1004

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