Activity: The “Change the World” Invention Challenge

Perfect for: Indoors or outdoors with space to brainstorm and build

Best for: Kids aged 8+ (amazing for creative thinking, purpose, leadership, and vision)

Activity Description:

Turn your home into a Global Inventors Summit where kids take on a real challenge: to invent something that could make the world better. Not just a fun gadget—but a bold, brilliant idea that could help solve real problems like pollution, loneliness, hunger, climate change, or unfairness.

They’ll think like inventors, engineers, designers, and world-changers—learning how to connect imagination with impact.

1. Set the Scene: Welcome to the Change Makers’ Lab

Create a “headquarters” using cardboard signs, posters, or a mission board that says:

“Welcome to the Change Makers’ Lab: Where Big Problems Meet Brave Ideas”

Optional roles:

• Lead Inventor
• Idea Tester
• Problem Investigator

2. Choose a Real Problem to Solve

Let them pick a problem they care about. Ideas include:

• Too much plastic waste
• People feeling lonely
• Not enough clean water
• Helping animals in danger
• Food going to waste
• Kids without toys or books
• People needing more kindness or hope

Ask:

• “Why does this matter to you?”
• “What do you wish could be different?”
• “How might a smart invention help fix it?”

3. Invent a Real Solution

Encourage them to dream big but keep it helpful.

They can:

• Sketch diagrams
• Build prototypes from cardboard, tape, or recycled bits
• Make models with LEGO or craft materials
• Create a name, logo, or poster

Ideas might include:

• A toy that teaches kids empathy
• A composting bin for every classroom
• A machine that sucks microplastics from rivers
• A robot that delivers friendship notes to shy kids

Let them combine heart + logic + fun.

4. Prepare a Pitch to Present Their Idea

Treat it like a real-world presentation:

• What is your invention called?
• What problem does it solve?
• How does it work?
• How could it help people or the planet?

They can pitch to family or friends, or even film it as a video message to “future inventors.”

5. Reflect and Dream Bigger

Ask:

• “What would it take to actually build this for real?”
• “Who could you write to about this idea?”
• “If you had a team of inventors, what would you build next?”

Encourage them to write down three more ideas in a Change Makers’ Notebook they can keep adding to.

This isn’t just a game—it’s how real inventors start. This activity fuels purpose, creativity, courage, and hope—the qualities that change the world.

Type n when you’re ready for the next life-shaping adventure.