Lift it up!

Pulleys are simple machines that are used to help lift heavy loads.

Experiment with this simple machine by creating your own with your child.

To build a simple pulley you will need string, an object to lift and a railing or banister to loop the string over.

Tie the string around your heavy object.

Try to lift the object straight up with the string. Is it easy or difficult to lift?

Loop the end of the string not tied to the object around the railing or banister.

Pull down on this end of the string to pull the object up.

Ask your child to explain what is happening.

Then experiment with lifting objects of different weights.