Our DIY Pinball was a hit!

We were at the Children’s Own Media Museum event at Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre over the Thanksgiving long-weekend, and, for the first time, we exhibited a non-electronic interactive toy: Pinball.

Our genius builder Erika made three wooden table top pinball machines, equipped with ball launcher, paddles, and removable pins.  Kids were asked to draw their own pinball pattern, define the scores, place the pins, and play. It was interesting to learn that many kids have not seen or played pinball before. And what was most rewarding is seeing how the little ones eventually learn the hand-eye coordination right there in front of us. Amazing to see that such a simple little game can bring such big smiles from both parents and kids.

Other exhibits at COMM included an Arduino workshop for kids, crafts table, robots and 3D printing demonstrations, an interactive dance room, as well as information about Canadian media icon, Marshall McLuhan.

Some photos of the pinball table: