This activity is suitable for children in grades Prep to Year 4 as it is aligned to the Australian Curriculum standards for Visual Arts and Chemical & Physical Sciences.

In this workshop we'll show you how to make robots and space explorers from salvaged materials.

• Scissors

• Staplers

• Pencil, pen & ruler

• PVA, craft glue or water-based paste

• Hole puncher

• Sticky tape (but challenge yourself to find alternatives)

Optional tools

• Box cutter

• Cutting mat

• Hot glue gun

• Needle and thread

• Awl

1. Choose a body shape: A container, plastic tray, reel or cardboard tube create a strong body.

2. Appendages.Is there a separate head to allow movement? Select arms and legs (fabric, plastic, cords, string or tubes can be tied, stapled or glued on) based on your robot design.

3. Control and Communication. Does your robot need a control panel, buttons and switches or antennas? Will there be a charging cord or power pack?

4. Personalise it. Cut shapes from sticky foam, stickers or fabric. Glue or tie on lids or hardware to complete your robot.