School holidays are the perfect time for kids to explore the wonders of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in a fun and hands-on way. Whether you're an educator looking to engage students during the break or a parent eager to spark your child's curiosity, these 20 kid-friendly DIY STEM activities are sure to inspire young minds and turn the holidays into a time of discovery.
1. Rainbow in a Jar
Explore density and liquid properties by creating a colourful rainbow in a jar using liquids of different densities. This visually stunning experiment doubles as a captivating lesson in science!
2. Egg Drop Challenge
Encourage critical thinking and problem-solving with the classic egg drop challenge. Kids can design and build contraptions to protect an egg from breaking when dropped from various heights.
3. DIY Solar Oven
Harness the power of the sun to create a simple solar oven. This activity teaches kids about solar energy and allows them to bake delicious treats using just sunlight.
4. Balloon Rocket Racing
Learn about Newton's Third Law of Motion by creating balloon rocket cars. This high-speed activity is bound to thrill kids as they explore the science of motion.
https://www.sdcdm.org/blog/2020/04/stream-activity-balloon-rocket
5. Fizzing Colors
Combine art and chemistry with fizzing colors. Use baking soda, vinegar, and food coloring to create a vibrant and bubbly masterpiece.
6. Paper Circuit Cards
Introduce kids to the world of electronics by making paper circuit cards. This activity combines creativity with basic circuitry knowledge.
7. DIY Lava Lamp
Explore the science of density and liquids with a homemade lava lamp. Kids can create mesmerizing, bubbling concoctions using simple household items.
https://handsonaswegrow.com/science-experiment-diy-lava-lamps/
8. Pasta Tower Challenge
Test engineering skills with the pasta tower challenge. Kids can design and build tall structures using only pasta and marshmallows, learning about stability and balance.
9. DIY Magnet Maze
Build a magnet maze using cardboard and magnets to understand the principles of magnetism. This activity promotes problem-solving and spatial reasoning.
10. Bottle Flipping Science
Turn the trend of bottle flipping into a scientific experiment. Kids can explore the physics of motion and stability while attempting to master the art of the bottle flip.
11. DIY Slime Lab
Combine chemistry and creativity with a DIY slime lab. Experiment with different ingredients to create the perfect slime consistency.
https://www.netmums.com/activities/how-to-make-slime-easy-recipes-no-glue
12. Straw Rocket Launcher
Construct a straw rocket launcher to explore aerodynamics and force. Kids can design their own rockets and test how far they can launch them.
13. DIY Weather Station
Create a simple weather station using household items. This activity teaches kids about meteorology and encourages them to observe and record weather patterns.
14. Coding with Ozobots
Introduce basic coding concepts with Ozobots, small robots that follow coloured lines. Kids can draw paths and commands for the Ozobots, learning the basics of programming.
15. DIY Water Wheel
Explore the power of water with a DIY water wheel. This engineering project demonstrates how water can be harnessed to generate energy.
16. Glowing Science Experiments
Turn off the lights and explore the world of luminescence with glowing science experiments. Create glow-in-the-dark substances and explore the science behind the phenomenon.
17. DIY Paper Helicopters
Learn about the forces of gravity and air resistance by making paper helicopters. Kids can experiment with different designs to see how they affect the helicopter's descent.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OG8WJg25_Q
18. Seed Jar Science
Observe the life cycle of a seed with a seed jar. This simple project allows kids to witness the stages of germination and plant growth.
19. DIY Microscope
Construct a makeshift microscope using a smartphone and a drop of water. This activity provides a close-up view of tiny objects and introduces kids to the world of microscopy.
20. DIY Water Filter
Teach kids about environmental science with a DIY water filter. Explore the process of water purification using common household materials.
These 20 kid-friendly DIY STEM activities are not only entertaining but also educational, making them the perfect way to keep young minds engaged and curious during the school holidays. Whether at home or in a classroom setting, these hands-on experiments will leave a lasting impact, fostering a love for STEM that extends beyond the break and into a lifetime of discovery.
16/11/2023
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