Many schools have begun to focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education to prepare young people for modern careers and inspire the next generation of innovators. However, the earliest STEM lessons can start at home from an early age to spark curiosity and an interest in learning.
Here are some suggestions for easy STEM activities for kids that parents and nannies can try at home for both education and fun.
Oil Spill Simulation
What’s great about STEM activities for kids is that they can be closely linked to real issues going on in the world. To inspire your little one to learn about and protect the environment, mix oil, water, and a few feathers in a large container and ask the child to try removing the oil from the mixture with spoons and sponges. It will quickly become apparent how difficult this task is and why real-life oil spills are such a problem.
Build a Tower with Toothpicks
You might just inspire the next great architect with this easy STEM activity that encourages imaginative play. Provide the child with toothpicks and a bag of marshmallows to build a tower, bridge, or other structure that stands up on its own. The goal is to build something creative and with staying power while enjoying some built-in treats along the way!
The Sink or Float Test
While many STEM activities are designed with older kids in mind, you can start the learning process at an early age with just some water and a few household objects. In a bathtub or bucket outside, test different objects with the child to see what sinks or floats. Have the child guess what will happen with each test and see if the guesses get more accurate as you test more objects.
Create a Stop-Motion Video
If your older child is interested in online videos and has seen YouTube stop-motion animation creations, a fun idea is to make your own video together while learning about technology. There are stop-motion apps available, and otherwise, all you need is a smartphone or iPad and a few objects to make a unique and sharable homemade movie.
Basic Computer Coding with Legos
Coding may sound too advanced for little ones to comprehend, but their favorite Lego blocks are an excellent place to start. Elementary and middle school students can give coding a try with mazes and instruction cards that are free and printable online. Kids will guide a Lego character through a maze while learning some basic command codes and sequences that will come in handy later in life.
Get Help with STEM at Home
If you are a busy parent or caregiver who doesn’t have a lot of extra time to devote to STEM activities, Household Staffing International can help. In fact, providing kids with a STEM head-start is a major reason why families hire private educators and live-in homeschool teachers. These childcare and education professionals can work with your kids on these types of STEM activities and many more so that they stay entertained and always learning something new.
We work with many skilled live-in nannies and nanny homeschool teachers who can benefit your entire family with their services. Contact us at 212-683-7722 to learn more and get help finding the best candidates for your lifestyle.