The corn maze is full of twists and turns, but at the very center waits a watchful scarecrow. He won’t let anyone step into his field, so your only chance is to build a bridge tall enough to cross over without being caught!
That’s the idea behind Scarecrow’s Bridge, a hands-on STEAM challenge where students must design and build a freestanding bridge using only a handful of everyday materials. The bridge must span across the scarecrow’s field—without touching it—and be built as tall as possible in just 10 minutes.
Along the way, students will learn to balance height and stability, make informed choices with limited materials, and work together under pressure. And when the time is up, they’ll test their creations to see if their bridge can hold weight while standing tall.
This activity is perfect for classrooms, afterschool programs, or even a fall family game night. It’s equal parts playful and educational, with a little seasonal twist to keep kids engaged.
Download the free printable Challenge Sheet + Scarecrow’s Field Mat here.
