This November, our children at Trillium Montessori embarked on a hands-on STEAM adventure by building and testing their very own “Pilgrim Boats.” Using everyday materials such as tin foil, craft sticks, and paper, they explored the science of buoyancy and stability while learning about the challenges faced by the Pilgrims on their historic voyage.
The classroom buzzed with excitement as each child launched their unique design into a large tub of water, watching to see how well their creation floated and how much “cargo” it could carry. Some boats held many pennies, while others showed how small design changes made a big difference. Each moment brought lessons in problem-solving, creativity, and persistence.
This project blended history and science in a way that made learning come alive. Our teaching team guided the children in testing ideas, asking questions, and refining their designs, encouraging a spirit of discovery.
We invite our families to ask their children about the boat they built. You may hear some impressive explanations of why things float, sink, or tip over. These conversations extend the learning beyond the classroom and spark curiosity at home.
