DIY STEAM Activities

Jaime Zwerling
What is the newest educational movement that encourages creativity, problem-solving, and communication? STEAM!

STEAM education involves integrating science, technology, engineering, art, and math with real-world problems. I recently had the opportunity to attend the National Science Teachers Convention, and STEAM was a major topic of conversation.

Harbor Day students are fortunate to participate in STEAM activities in their classes, as well as a well-stocked maker-space in the library, but have you ever thought of bringing STEAM into your home? Here are some ideas for an at-home Family STEAM Night, so that you can join in the fun!

1. Paper Plate Pinball
Materials:
Paper plates
Paper scraps
Marbles
Tape
Optional: wikki stix, pipe cleaners,
cardboard (anything!)
    https://bbk12e1-cdn.myschoolcdn.com/ftpimages/306/misc/misc_142488.jpg
Directions:
Design a marble maze or pinball maze with scraps on a paper plate. Run a marble through the maze.

2. Ancient Greek Architecture
Materials:
Paper cups
Baking sheets





       https://bbk12e1-cdn.myschoolcdn.com/ftpimages/306/misc/misc_142486.jpg
Directions:
Design a structure from only these materials that can hold a member of your family.

3. Newspaper Tower
Materials:
Newspaper
Tape







                      https://bbk12e1-cdn.myschoolcdn.com/ftpimages/306/misc/misc_142487.jpg
Directions:
Roll newspaper into poles. Design a structure that can hold a ball. For an extra challenge, get competitive! Who can build the tallest structure that holds the ball?

Whether you choose one of these activities or come up with your own, we can all agree that STEAM is an innovative and fun way to practice problem-solving and engineering with our kids. These skills are regarded by the US Department of Education as essential for careers of the future. Together, we can inspire and educate the next generation of innovation.
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Harbor Day School

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Harbor Day School is a co-educational private independent K-8 school established in 1952.

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