The I Can Kit series are 2 carry case boxes that are designed around getting kids engaged on the subjects of science, and engineering by giving them the tools needed to have fun while also exploring the basics of each subject. With each of the cases I had to think about more than just the cases themselves, I had to think about how the kids could take the tools and equipment further as we just wanted to give them a starting point to grasp the basics of each subject.
I can Build
Text: Elizabeth Golding
Edited by: Toni Stemp
Illustration and Design: Michael King
The I can build carry case is all set around engineering. We knew the subject of engineering can be a bit daunting so to keep kids in mind we thought about building models with templates that we would provide them.
So inside the box would include 12 sheets of different templates that can all be combined with one another plus 2 sheets of wheels and cogs. It would also include 8 bamboo sticks with easy tear points to adjust for varying lengths. Lastly, a sticker sheet is available to help brighten up their creation.
To get kids started on their engineering journey we wanted to include a book with 6 examples with instructions on what they can build to help develop their creative skills to go on building whatever else they wanted.
The process of how I made the models to include in the book started off with what to include. For example, I knew I wanted to include a car since it incorporated lots of different elements that would help develop their understanding of future projects such as the concept of motion. Then the next step would be sketches, where I tried many different ways of how to make a car box with the templates. Then I gathered some rough material to see if it would actually work which I did alongside the sketches in case any changes needed to be noted down for future reference. After I found the perfect solution I built them in 3D using Illustrator 3D features to finalize the designs so I could include them in the book. Lastly, after I got the proper material I built it to see if it would work with the stock we requested to be inside the book.
Science STEM Experiments
Text: Anne Rooney
Illustration: Michael King
Design: Michael King
In regard to science stem experiments, we were tasked to make a box full of engaging experiments fun for all kids that would provide crucial basic information on the world of Science as well as fun experiments that they themselves can do with basic household items.
Inside the box, it would contain a book providing children with a basic scientific process that kids can follow through to make them feel like a proper scientist as well as 12 experiments they can do themselves following the process provided just before. Along with the book it contains a pad where they can write all their findings for each experiment as well as additional pages where they can design their own experiments. Also, the box holds 3 test tubes and a foldable test tube holder, Universal indicator paper, a plastic pipette, and 6 balloons that are used in one of the experiments.
For what experiments went inside the book we first researched what kind of experiments kids could enjoy from our own memories as well as online. After generating a list we narrowed it down by what materials are easily accessible in homes i.e. baking powder, paper, vinegar, and others. Then from that list, we broke each of them down into steps and attempted them at home to see if any additional steps were needed or rework other steps to make them more concise and easily understood. This was needed so we could figure out how to fit them all into the book removing experiments that took too long to explain since we figured that kids would find them daunting or lose interest until we had our final list of experiments.
The back and front cover of each of the boxes.
These were fun boxes to make as I had full creative freedom for what could go inside of the box, only restricted by how a kid would play and interact with these tools, so in a sense, I had to become a kid again and push the limits for each to ensure it's suitability to children.