The best STEM activities for kids
If you're stuck for what to do this Easter break, STEM activities offer a valuable opportunity for children to develop skills, that will help to deepen their understanding of STEM subjects. Here are some of the best ideas to help foster an interest in science, technology, engineering, and maths.
STEM activities not only provide opportunities for children to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations but also help them see the relevance and practicality of what they're learning in subjects like math and science. This, in turn, can inspire a bigger interest and help them to engage more in lessons. Research with year 7 students aged 11+ also shows that STEM activities improve students' science process skills, STEM career interests, and motivation.
STEM activities also encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and experimentation. Students learn to analyse problems, test solutions, and draw conclusions—all essential skills for success in STEM subjects and a variety of other subjects.
When choosing what kind of activity to do with your child, what helps is to encourage them to experiment, ask questions, and think critically as they engage in the activities. Foster a sense of curiosity by encouraging children to make observations and explore different possibilities. Above all, tailor activities to children's ages, interests, and skill levels so that they stay engaged.
Below are some of the best STEM activities that provide challenges and encourage kids to brainstorm solutions and learn from failures.
Robotics and coding
Introduce kids to robotics and coding through hands-on activities. They can build and program robots using kits like LEGO Mindstorms or Arduino. Websites like Code.org and Scratch offer interactive platforms for learning programming concepts through game development and animation.
Stem activity: Robotic activities to do at home
Electronics projects
Encourage kids to explore electronics by building circuits and electronic projects. They can start with simple projects like building a basic flashlight or alarm circuit, then progress to more complex projects like building a digital clock or FM radio.
Stem activity: Make a DIY flashlight
Engineering challenges
Challenge kids to design and build structures, bridges, or vehicles using everyday materials like popsicle sticks, straws, and rubber bands. Provide them with design constraints and encourage them to test and iterate on their designs to improve performance.
Stem activity: Make a balloon buggy
Science experiments
Kids of all ages love hands-on science experiments that explore various scientific concepts. Experiments could include exploring chemical reactions, studying the properties of magnets, investigating the principles of buoyancy, or experimenting with renewable energy sources like solar power.
Stem activity: Make bath bombs
Mathematical puzzles and games
Introduce kids to mathematical puzzles, games, and challenges to develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Activities like Sudoku, logic puzzles, and math-based board games can be entertaining and educational.
Stem activity: Sudoku
Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
Introduce kids to CAD software and teach them how to create 3D models and designs. They can design objects like buildings, vehicles, or products and 3D print their designs using a 3D printer.
Stem activity: CAD for kids
Outdoor STEM exploration
Take advantage of outdoor environments to engage kids in STEM exploration. Activities like geocaching (participants use a Global Positioning System receiver or mobile device to hide and seek containers, called geocaches or caches, at specific locations marked by coordinates all over the world), bird watching, or water quality testing can help kids connect with the natural world while learning about scientific concepts.
Stem activity: Geocaching
DIY science kits
Invest in DIY science kits that give kids the materials and instructions for hands-on experiments at home. Kits covering topics like chemistry, physics, and biology are widely available and can provide hours of educational entertainment.
Stem activity: DIY Science kits