First Graders Build a Slide (Yes, Really!)
At ICC School, learning isn’t confined to worksheets or textbooks—it begins with a question, a spark of curiosity, and the space to imagine what’s possible. This spring, our first-grade class set out on a learning journey that began with a simple but powerful invitation: “What would you like to create at school if you could do anything?”
The answers were as heartfelt and imaginative as only six- and seven-year-olds can offer—some wanted to build a waterpark, others longed to bring back their grandmother. In these early conversations, teachers listened closely, honoring every idea and helping children see that their voices mattered.
From Big Dreams to a Bold Idea
Through many thoughtful discussions and follow-up class meetings, the class began to explore which ideas could realistically be brought to life at school. With each conversation, their list grew more focused, until it finally centered on a project that sparked genuine excitement and felt within reach: “Let’s build a playground on the roof, right outside our classroom!”
Eager and full of ideas, the children began sketching their dream playground—slides, swings, climbing walls, and more. But soon they were introduced to an important real-world concept: constraints. Together, they considered the time available, the school’s budget, and the logistics of working on the roof. That’s when the class made a collective decision: Let’s build a slide.
Research, Revisions, and Real Work
The class launched into research, exploring how slides are made, what materials are needed, and how to ensure safety. Their first idea? A tube slide built in the classroom, with help from the school’s handyman. But as they discussed the complexity of creating a freestanding structure indoors, they realized it was trickier than they had imagined.
Back to the drawing board.
This setback led to a moment of creative thinking—and a brilliant pivot. “What if we use the main staircase in the school as the base for our slide?”
With that idea in mind, they researched further. They figured out they could use cardboard and duct tape as the main materials, and consulted a parent in the school community—an architect—who provided insight into safety, structural stability, and design.
Before building the slide, the children took another important step: they designed and constructed a prototype of their slide, installing it temporarily on the stairs. They tested it out carefully—not with themselves, but with their dolls and bears. Through laughter and serious observation, they assessed what worked and what needed fixing, making improvements before moving on to the real build.
Slide Day: A Dream Comes to Life
The big day arrived.
With sheets of cardboard, bright silver tape, and the guidance of their architect mentor, the first graders transformed the school staircase into a fully functional slide. There was energy in the air, hands hard at work, and a joyful whirlwind of cardboard and tape. As they built, classmates, teachers, and visitors walked by in awe, asking questions and cheering them on. The pride on their faces was unmistakable.
The slide wasn’t just fun—it was a symbol of what’s possible when children lead their learning.
Why This Project Matters
This slide-building adventure is a shining example of project-based learning in elementary education. Through this experience, students didn’t just learn about design, teamwork, or problem-solving—they lived it. They engaged in real-world thinking, learned how to adapt their plans, consulted experts, and saw a project through from idea to reality.
Most importantly, they learned that their ideas are powerful, their voices matter, and that school can be a place where dreams and learning grow side by side.
At ICC School, we believe that learning thrives where imagination, inquiry, and joy are allowed to lead. And thanks to one bold group of first graders, we all got to take a ride down a slide built with heart, cardboard, and the belief that anything is possible.
