Materials Needed

• Toothpicks

Choose a mix of the following building materials:

Non-edible materials:

• Modeling clay
• Play dough
• Model magic

Edible materials:

• Mini marshmallows
• Gumdrops
• Grapes
• Soft nuts (only if no allergies)
• Apple cubes
• Cheese cubes
• Small pretzel sticks
• Thick frosting (colored if you like)
• Royal icing

Instructions

1. Set up the space.
   Cover tables with paper or plastic if needed. Lay out the materials so everyone can reach them.
2. Explain the theme.
   Choose a theme for the sculptures. It could be something related to your lesson or a fun topic like animals or buildings.
3. Pass out materials.
   Give each youth or group a handful of toothpicks and some soft building materials.
4. Set the timer.
   Let them build for about 10 minutes. Remind them to work carefully and have fun.
5. Build and create.
   Encourage the youth to use their imagination. If working in groups, remind them to talk and plan together.
6. Share and reflect.
   When time is up, gather everyone. Let each person or group show their sculpture and explain what they made.
7. Clean up.
   Throw away used toothpicks. If it’s safe, let them eat leftover edible materials. Wash hands after.

Notes and Variations

• For younger kids, use bigger pieces like apple chunks or cheese cubes.
• If doing this outside, bring hand wipes and napkins.
• Avoid nuts if anyone has allergies.
• You can make it a contest for tallest, most creative, or most stable structure.
• Tie it to a Bible story by asking youth to build something related to the story, like Noah’s Ark or the Tower of Babel.

Safety Tips

• Watch younger children with toothpicks. Remind them not to poke themselves or others.
• Do not eat anything that has touched toothpicks already used in the sculpture.
• Clean the area before and after the activity, especially if food is involved.

See https://young-catholics.com/2106/toothpick-sculptures/ for more information.