Build-a-Bone: Edible Skeletons That Teach and Delight!
Here’s a fun activity to do with left over marshmallows from summer s’mores…
Bring anatomy to life with this hilarious and hands-on activity—where marshmallows become joints and pretzels turn into bones!
Want to make science stick? Try adding marshmallows. And pretzels. Maybe a few giggles, too. In this delightfully messy anatomy activity, kids get hands-on with the skeletal system by building life-sized (and snack-sized) skeletons out of sweet and salty treats. While they munch and learn, they’ll discover how bones support, protect, and move our bodies—all without a single boring worksheet in sight. It’s part snack, part science, and totally mom-approved. Just be warned: some bones may mysteriously “disappear” during construction… 🦴🍬
🌟 Learning Benefits
Human Biology Awareness: Kids learn basic skeletal anatomy and the purpose of bones and joints.
Fine Motor Skills: Assembling mini "bones" sharpens hand-eye coordination.
Creative Thinking: Children design and troubleshoot their own structures.
Laughter-Based Learning: The silliness creates joy-filled memory anchors for science concepts.
Tactile & Visual Learning: Builds understanding through hands-on exploration, not just talk.
🛒 Supply List
Edible Skeleton Materials:
Mini marshmallows (joints)
Thin pretzel sticks (bones)
Paper plates or baking sheets (for building base)
Printable human skeleton diagram (optional for reference)
Optional Add-ons:
Large marshmallows (for skull or hip bones)
Toothpicks (for extra support or smaller joints)
Raisins or chocolate chips (for eyes or “bone” labels)
🧠 Step-by-Step Instructions
Introduce the skeleton! Show a simple diagram of a human skeleton and point out major bones (arms, legs, ribs, spine, skull).
Assign bones to pretzels and joints to marshmallows.
Lay out supplies on a clean plate or tray.
Start building! Encourage children to recreate the human skeleton or invent their own.
Name the parts as you build: “What are these bones in your arm called again?” “Where does your skull go?”
Take a picture before the snacking begins!
Optional: Have kids label their skeletons using toothpicks and sticky notes.
💬 Conversation Starters & Reflection
“Why do you think we need bones in our bodies?”
“What happens if a joint doesn’t work properly?”
“Which part of your skeleton helps you jump?”
“Was it hard to balance your skeleton? Why do you think that is?”
“If your bones were made of marshmallows, what would happen?”
🔍 Answer Key for Curious Parents
Why are marshmallows good joint examples?
Marshmallows are soft and flexible, just like real joints need to be! They connect stiff pretzel “bones” and allow for the movement that joints provide.
What’s the role of bones in the body?
Bones protect organs (like the skull protects the brain), provide shape, and anchor muscles to help us move.
Is this activity just silly fun?
Absolutely not! Play-based learning helps children internalize abstract concepts. When they're laughing while naming the femur, you know they’ll remember it.
💛 Parent Encouragement
No need for Pinterest perfection here. If the marshmallows are sticky and the bones fall apart—that’s part of the process. Let your child explore, rebuild, snack, and try again. The real win is the joy you’re building together.
📣 Want More Learning That Sticks?
The Web of Life Curriculum blends nature, science and art into meaningful, hands-on activities your whole family will love. Join the Web of Life Curriculum today and get a full year of seasonal learning at your fingertips.
