Keeping kids learning during the summer doesn’t have to be boring or stressful! There are plenty of ways to have fun and activate young brains. We’ve compiled a list of 33 brain-building activities that have a focus on STEM. Check out some of our ideas below, and read to the end to download the full list.
Build DIY instruments and have a sing-a-long.
There are plenty of DIY instruments you can make, from rainsticks to steel drums to tissue box guitars and more. Not only does the act of assembling the instruments encourage STEM learning, but playing music has been associated with encouraging mathematical learning as well.
Combine art with outside exploration by drawing local plants.
Take a clipboard, paper, and some crayons or colored pencils and practice recreating your local flowers. Afterwards (or during), you can break down the different parts of the flowers for a fun science lesson!
Create constellations using toothpicks and mini marshmallows.
Find a star map online, show kids the constellations in the night sky, and then recreate the constellations using toothpicks and marshmallows. Your young astronauts will love this sweet activity!
Take Blocks Rock! to a local park and play.
You can play Blocks Rock! on any flat surface, including your favorite park’s picnic table! Our game has been scientifically proven to build skills that are critical for STEM learning, and with a portable carrying case, you can take your STEM learning with you anywhere, all summer long.
Learn about water ecosystems by visiting a nearby lake or ocean.
Every little trip is an opportunity to teach your kids something new, and there’s plenty to learn by visiting water ecosystems. Read up on the plant and animal life together before you go, and see what you can identify while you enjoy a day in the sun!
Plant fruits or vegetables in your backyard or at a neighborhood garden and watch them grow.
Including your kids in planting will help them discover and learn about plant life. Plus, they’ll be mesmerized at the many different ways that plants can grow. When your fruits and veggies are ready to be harvested, you can also include your kids in preparing and cooking the foods as an added learning bonus!
Ready for more STEM Summer Bucket List ideas?
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