Cardboard Box Challenge showcases creativity

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This article was published 01/03/2025 (202 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The gymnasium at Assiniboine College’s East Campus was alive with excitement Friday morning as more than 250 children gathered to participate in the annual Cardboard Box Challenge, hosted by the college’s early childhood education (ECE) program.

The event provided children with an opportunity to transform simple cardboard boxes into elaborate creations, sparking their imagination and developing essential problem-solving skills.

The challenge, a long-standing tradition at the college, was organized by ECE students to foster creativity and hands-on learning, team lead Chelsea Pakulak told the Sun.

“This event allows our students to gain real-life experience working with children while also building connections with potential future employers,” Pakulak said. “We provided open-ended materials, including cardboard, tape, glue guns and markers, allowing children to construct anything their imagination desired.”

The gymnasium buzzed with activity as children eagerly worked on their projects. Some were busy cutting and shaping cardboard into castles, robots and airplanes, while others created houses with intricate details.

One particularly focused participant, Bo Kennedy, spent more than an hour building a house with a bridge connecting to a pool.

“I love building things,” Bo said excitedly, adding that he had yet to come up with a name for his creation.

This year’s event saw an increase in participation, with more than 150 children arriving in the morning and another 100 expected later in the day. To enhance accessibility, the college provided free bus transportation, allowing children from various community early learning centres to attend.

Participating centres included multiple YMCA programs, Assiniboine Early Learning Centre, Montessori Smile, George Fitton School, Linden Lanes Kids Club and the Co-op Early Enrichment Program.

Beyond the fun and creativity, the event served as an educational opportunity. Pakulak noted that the open-ended nature of the challenge encouraged children to develop problem-solving skills, work collaboratively, and express their ideas through hands-on play. “The possibilities are endless when children are given the chance to think freely and explore their own ideas,” she said.

The Cardboard Box Challenge not only benefits the children but also serves as a crucial learning experience for ECE students. More than 50 students from the college participated in planning and executing the event, gaining practical experience in organizing large-scale activities for young learners.

Throughout the day, instructors and students documented the children’s creations through photographs and written observations, creating learning stories that will be shared with the participating centres. Some children were even able to take their projects home, provided space allowed on the buses.

Reflecting on the event’s success, Pakulak credited the hard work and dedication of the leadership team.

“This truly was a labour of love from our students. Their effort and passion made this event run smoothly, and seeing the joy on the children’s faces made it all worthwhile.”

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