Building Pillow Forts to Learn About Compression

SciShow Kids

In this engaging episode of SciShow Kids, host Jessi explores the physics of building forts, specifically focusing on the force of compression. Following a previous lesson on tension (pulling forces) used in sheet forts, this video introduces compression (pushing forces) as the key to building sturdy structures with cushions and furniture. Using accessible analogies like squeezing a spring or sitting on a chair, the video breaks down complex physics concepts into bite-sized, understandable pieces for young learners. The video covers key themes of forces, material science, and structural engineering. It visually demonstrates how compression works through animations of chair legs bearing weight and humorous hypothetical scenarios, such as a chair made of raw spaghetti. The narrative transitions from theory to practice by showing a real-world demonstration of a child constructing a tunnel and a walled fort using sofa cushions, highlighting how the materials must withstand the compression forces to keep the structure standing. This video is an excellent resource for K-3 classrooms to bridge the gap between play and physical science. It turns a common childhood activity—building forts—into a hands-on engineering challenge. Teachers can use this video to introduce Newton's laws in a simplified way, discuss the properties of materials (rigid vs. squishy), and inspire STEM challenges where students must design and build their own structures that can withstand compressive forces.