Wonky Conker Car

A great little woodland activity for children using natural materials and simple tools.

Introduction

Get those wonky conker cars rolling this autumn; so much fun! Supports use of simple tools like the palm drill and saw.

* Muddy Faces actively promotes child-led outdoor play & learning. We recognise and believe in the curiosity that children have and their drive to explore and discover. We hope that you will bear this in mind when considering more prescribed activities like this one – often much more creative ideas will occur if resources are simply provided and children are given the time and space to explore independently.

What you'll need

conkers
selection of sticks
palm drill
conker clamp
F clamp
saw

This activity has been provided by

Useful items from our shop

Item available from our shop

Environmental Considerations

Consider the environmental impact of preparing, carrying out & completing this activity. Could this impact be reduced? Specific considerations for this activity could include:

consider where and how many conkers you are collecting
many conkers can fall where they are unlikely to grow, such as paths / roads
try to collect where there is an abundance
we have some foraging guidelines which may help

Health & Safety Considerations

Follow your usual operating procedures and carry out appropriate risk benefit assessments.
Some considerations particular to this activity include:

tool use
small parts (conkers) choking hazard

Step #1 Make the wheels

After collecting your conkers, using a palm drill and conker clamp, drill through 4 conkers.

See our 'Drilling Conkers' activity.

Step #2 Make the body of the car

Saw a length of stick to be the body of the car and then using the palm drill create 2 holes through the stick like in the picture.

Please look at our 'Drilling a Pole' activity for advice on clamping poles and creating a sturdy work area.

TOP TIP:

Choose a stick that has a circumference smaller than that of the conkers so that the wheels are able to rotate when on a flat surface.

Step #3 Put the wheels on the car

Find a stick that fits easily through the drilled holes of the stick and the conkers. It needs to be able to freely rotate. If you choose something that is a bit bendy you can bend the ends to stop the conker wheels falling off.

You could also use a little bit of clay to act as a washer to stop them falling off.

If you come up with a genius solution then let us know!

Step #4 Get rolling!

Have a look in your loose parts and water play collection for some guttering or tubes or suitable item to roll them down.

Who has the wonkiest car? Whose car gets down in the quickest time? Do you need to make any modifications?

Disclaimer: Muddy Faces cannot take any responsibility for accidents or damage that occurs as a result of following this activity.You are responsible for making sure the activity is conducted safely.