5 Easy Ways to Incorporate STEM at Home

It’s National S.T.E.M. / S.T.E.A.M. Day on November 8! This day inspires kids to explore their interests in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. And guess what parents, STEM education can happen right at home! Check out these 5 easy ways to include STEM learning on a daily basis.

1. Let’s Play: Classic STEM Toys Your Kids Will Love Forever

These classic toys are here to stay and grow with your kids as they get older. Not only do they stand the test of time (which is rare for kids’ toys!) but they help develop engineering skills. Here’s a list of some of our favorite classic STEM toys:

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2. Make Space: Create a Space Just for Creating

Have a designated makerspace (or a bin) filled with items that spark creativity… items that you probably already have in your home like:

Toothpicks
Tape
Straws
Craft Sticks
Pipe Cleaners
Aluminum Foil
Plastic Wrap
String/Yarn
Index Cards
Scrap Paper
Newspaper
Toilet Paper Rolls
Paper Towel Rolls
Rubberbands
Paperclips
Drink Cartons
Glue
Paint
Play Dough
Magnets
Cardboard
Scissors
Hole punches

Challenge your kids to make and build things out of the materials in their makerspace. Check out these 52 Steam Challenges from whatdowedoallday.com.

3. Break It Down: Don’t Break That! (but on second thought…)

One of the most exciting ways to get kids interested in how things work is to let them see what’s inside! Have an old phone lying around? Is that broken printer just collecting dust?

Turn your old, broken electronics into a fun learning opportunity by letting the kids take it apart! (With supervision and help, of course.) Sneak in a little bit of math by having them count/add/multiply the pieces and parts. Older kids can research and learn about the different parts and what they do.

Old Electronics to Take Apart:

Phones
Tablets
Printers
Computers
Video Game Consoles
Electronic Toys
Keyboards
TV Remotes
Clocks

4. All Systems Go: Kidsguide’s Favorite STEM Destinations

Ok, this isn’t exactly STEM at home… but these local destinations make for a great family outing. And if you know Kidsguide, you know we’re all about finding fun places to go… and bonus points if there’s learning involved! Check out some of our favorite STEM destinations:

Friendly Reminder: Check with organization for operation hours and COVID-19 safety guidelines.