Build a Marshmallow Igloo

Build a marshmallow igloo for a fantastic Winter STEM challenge.

What Is An Igloo?

An igloo is a type of shelter made from blocks of ice placed on each other, usually in the shape of a dome. Hunters used Igloos in winter as temporary shelters away from their homes.

Igloos are the traditional dwellings of the Inuit and other Arctic peoples and have several features that make them well-suited as shelters in frigid environments.

How To Make A Marshmallow Igloo

Can you make an igloo out of marshmallows? Try your hand at this fun marshmallow-building challenge!

💡Go ahead and turn it into an open-ended STEM challenge by providing materials, researching igloos, and setting guidelines. Or you can follow our easy tutorial below to get started.

Supplies:

💡 TIP: Feel free to use cotton balls or pom poms as an alternative to marshmallows!

Marshmallows
Glue
Plastic coffee cup lid
Scissors
Paper plate

Instructions to Make an Igloo:

STEP 1. Cut a “door” out of the lid about 1 inch wide.

STEP 2. Use a paper plate as your base and glue a circle of marshmallows around the bottom of the lid.

STEP 3. Glue a second circle of marshmallow on top of the first layer.

STEP 4. Repeat until the plastic lid is covered.

STEP 5. Glue more marshmallows on the top to make the igloo taller.

More Ways to Make an Igloo

If you’re looking for more suggestions on how to make an igloo, turn these into creative STEM challenges for your kids and students.

Sugar Cube Igloo

Materials: Sugar cubes, white glue, cardboard base.
Instructions: Start by gluing sugar cubes in a circular pattern on a cardboard base, leaving an opening for the door. Stack each layer slightly inward to form the dome shape. Let each layer dry before adding the next one.

Marshmallow and Toothpick Igloo

Materials: Mini marshmallows, toothpicks.
Instructions: Connect marshmallows using toothpicks to form the walls of the igloo. Start with a circular base and gradually build up, angling the marshmallows inward for a dome effect. Leave an opening for the door.

Playdough Igloo

Materials: White playdough, small plastic animals (optional).
Instructions: Shape the playdough into small blocks and stack them into an igloo structure, curving them inward for the dome. Add toy animals inside for a fun touch.

Paper or Cardboard Igloo

Materials: Paper or thin cardboard, scissors, glue.
Instructions: Use materials available to fashion an igloo shape. Consider the shapes involved and how you will achieve the curved walls. Fold and glue pieces together, creating the dome and entrance. You can incorporate these shape nets as part of the process. This challenge is perfect for older kids.