STEM (Science, Technology, engineering, and mathematics) are a great way to get kids learning while exploring. We are sharing some of the best STEM activities for kids that are not only fun, but easy to put together in a moment’s notice.
What is STEM?
If you are not familiar with the word STEM it stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and mathematics. With the past several years activities that have a main focus in these categories have made a huge impact in the way kids play and explore.
STEM activities at times look just like kids are playing, but when you observe closely you will understand that it is much more than this. They are using critical thinking, design, and problem solving skills to get from point A to point B to create something amazing.
What age can you Introduce STEM to your kids?
There is no wrong time to introduce STEM to your kids. You can do this at a very young age with simple problem solving activities as well as when they are much older.
10 Smart STEM Activities for Kids
Ready to find some of the best STEM Activities for Kids? You will love these simple and fun ideas!
1. Catapult
A catapult is a staple when it comes to STEM projects! Use these fun DIY Catapult instructions to create a one of a kind catapult with the kids. When they are building these catapults they will go through a 6 step process which begins with the brainstorm stage that is then followed by the planning stage in their head and then on paper. Then they will gather supplies and create a mockup that they can then adjust as needed to then create their final project. Kids of all ages love building and watching theri catapult in action.
2. Balloon Launcher
Since summer is quickly approaching, it is the perfect time to take your STEM activities outside and create a DIY Balloon Launcher. Your kids will get to use their science and engineering skills to create a launcher to see just how long they can get a balloon to launch.
3. Build a Bridge
Grab some popsicle sticks and get building with this fun bridge project. Have your kids test their skills to see how sturdy of a bridge they can build and how much weight it can hold. You will be amazed at how much weight one bridge can hold when built properly.
4. Coding
Coding is a great way to bring STEM inside especially on those gloomy days. Here your kids will use technology and programming to practice their coding skills. We love that there are so many coding options online for all skill levels. If you are looking for a great online coding resource then you will want to check out code.org where you will find different coding activities that will engage and challenge your child.
5. Structure Building
If your kids love to play with their food, then grab some mini marshmallows and some toothpicks and have them build 3-D objects using just these two things. Can your child build a castle structure that is 18 inches tall? Only time will tell as they use their knowledge to make their building stand.
6. Cup Tower
What kids don’t love playing with cups? Grab a pack of 100 cups at the store to see if your kids can build the ultimate tower using all the cups. Can they do it before they all come crashing down? You can guarantee they will do this activity over and over again.
7. Egg Drop
When I was growing up in school I remember the egg drop, this is still just as popular now as it was back then. If you are brave enough, give your kids an egg and have them create something that can withstand a drop off the balcony without breaking the egg. Have them search high and low around the house to use recyclable materials for an even bigger challenge.
8. Dancing Raisins
Have you ever seen raisins dance? Well with this fun activity you can! Grab some clear glasses and fill one with Sprite, on with Ginger Ale, and one with Tonic water that is all room temperature. Once you have done this, add your raisins to see if they will dance! Your kids will be amazed and wonder how this is possible. Well, I will tell you how so you can sound like the smartest person in the world!
Since raisins are more dense than the soda they naturally will sink to the bottom. The soda will cause bubbles to form around the raising and this will cause them to begin to float to the top. But then the bubbles will pop making the raisins fall once again. This process is repeated over and over again making the raisins appear to dance all over the glass.
9. Fireworks in a Jar
Smaller kids love this fun activity that they will want you to do again and again. You will want to fill your jar with warm water about ¾ of the way full. In another bowl you will want to add 4 Tablespoons of oil and then add drops of food coloring. You can do different colors of food coloring, in fact I encourage you too! Gently with a fork you will want to mix your food coloring into the oil. Once mixed pour it gently into your jar. Let your kids be amazed as they watch what happened next as the food coloring and the oil separate in the water.
10. Paper Airplanes
Your STEM activity list is not complete without adding a paper airplane to it! With so many different designs and techniques you can use your STEM skills to determine how to make the best paper airplane!
What are some of your favorite STEM activities? Share in the comments below!
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