STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (previously STEM, which didn't include art and music).
STEAM focuses on hands-on learning which helps teach innovation, creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Summer is the perfect time to let your little thinkers go crazy with hands-on play to create their own inventions. We have also put together some experiences that can provide a jumping-off start for their own STEAM ideas.
![]() |
1) Engineering With Paper
Start simple with these 10 paper engineering challenges. All you need to get started is paper, tape, and scissors. Then sit back and watch your kids get creative!
![]() |
2) DIY Ice Cream
The perfect thing for a hot summer day is an ice cream treat, so why not make your own? Follow these directions to create your own ice cream. While you're enjoying it, talk about how it happened!
![]() |
3) DIY Density Tower
Grab this list of household materials and get started on this fun and amazing experiment. You might even want to grab a journal and make some hypotheses and observations.
![]() |
4) STEM with Candy
Do you have leftover candy hanging around from Halloween, Valentine's Day or Easter? Use that candy in these 10 cool experiments.
![]() |
5) Fizzy Dinosaur Eggs
No matter your age, it's always fun to get a surprise. Create your own Fizzy Dinosaur eggs and break them open to discover what's hidden inside. Find the directions here.
![]() |
6) Exploding Volcano
Who wouldn't want to create their own volcano?!? Start with a trip to the library or a search through ebooks to learn about volcanos and how they are made and then follow these directions to make your own.
![]() |
7) Make Giant Bubbles
Discover which 3 household ingredients can help you create these mindblowing giant bubbles! Here's the recipe.
![]() |
8) DIY Lava Lamp
Learn about why water and oil don't mix while making your own "lava lamp". Get the instructions here.
![]() |
9) Clean A Penny
Make your dirty penny clean with chemistry & items you likely have at home! Find out how here.
![]() |
10) Concoctions
Get messy with homemade concoctions! STEAM activities don't have to be difficult, just let the kids play! Here's an example.
If you loved these STEAM ideas
you can find more on our Pinterest Page