Any kid can become an architect or an engineer -- all it takes is simple household materials and a creative mind. The books listed here are brimming with activities and projects that explore the world of building and design. Whether used for school or play, each page opens the door to learning. For more ways to introduce children to architecture, see our resources list at the end of this article.
These fun and easy step-by-step projects will introduce kids in grades 4 through 7 to the basics of building and engineering. Children will practice cutting, drilling and joining as they create small models and big structures such as domes, igloos, bridges and dams.
Younger children will learn about basic construction principles as they build their own small houses and structures. This colorful book has simple illustrations, building plans, and playhouse ideas.
From the Kaleidoscope Kids series, this fact-filled paperback has photos of famous bridges, an appendix of important bridges around the world, facts about the history and science of bridges, and plenty of projects using simple materials like cereal boxes.
This isn't a project book as such, but it's a great source of can-do real world activities for kids old enough to tackle elementary geometry and algebra. The lively 96-page paperback has word problems and activities that show how architects use math to design buildings and structures.
Geared for kids in middle school and high school, this book is packed with ideas for projects and experiments that encompass science, math, geography, engineering, and architecture. As they read and build, kids will learn fascinating concepts of designing highways, bridges, railroads, waterways, and utilities.
For kids and teens who love art, here are step-by-step instructions for drawing the Empire State Building, the Taj Mahal, and other world-famous buildings. Also, find facts about building structure and basic concepts of architectural design.
