17 STEAM/STEM Activities For Older Kids
Are you looking for STEAM / STEM activities for older kids? Grab these STEAM/STEM activities, projects, kits, and books for teens and add learning fun to your homeschool today!
It all started with a bright blue book and a company asking for a review.
A book I spotted, desperately wanted to play with, and quickly dismissed because I have “stick to the textbook” kids.
As a mom who works full time and homeschools full time, I’ve always been slightly jealous of those moms who share the newest amazing project created on their homeschool day.
And when I finally have 5 minutes to try something cool, while my kids flat out refuse to play.
Sigh.
Sneaky STEAM Tactics
Teach the kids you have, right? And this is great advice.
But I really wanted to explore, try new things, and get inspired.
I got a little sneaky 😉 This is vital when dealing with change-resistant kids. The trick is to make them think it is their own great idea.
I brought up the cover on the screen and asked the kids to come here and take a peek. One look at this beautiful book and they asked me to get it.
Disclosure: I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
STEAM Kids: 50+ Science / Technology / Engineering / Art / Math Hands-On Projects for Kids
Never underestimate the power of a book. It might just change your homeschool forever.
This book launched us on a journey to learn what is STEAM/STEM and how to include it in my homeschool.
We started our journey with the Original STEAM Kids, and you can read about that here.
Next, I started to invest in science subscription boxes.
Now we do a mix of cool books we have, subscription boxes, and whatever new things I see around the web.
What Is STEAM/STEM:
STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. You know, all those subjects that make us want to run to the hills. (Not just me, right?)
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
STEMist is an explorer, creator, and inventor.
“STEM embraces the 4 C’s identified as key in 21st Century education: Creativity, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, and Communication.” – Steam Powered Family
Why I Started To Include STEAM/STEM Activities
The reason I’ve worked so hard in the last few years to include STEM/STEAM is that it encourages my kids to think, ask questions, problem solve, get involved in the process, and have fun.
I noticed a big change in both of my kids after including these activities in our homeschool. My kids would love to just have the answers provided, and because I am busy, it was just easier to do so.
But I was failing my kids. They weren’t learning to figure things out on their own. This spilled over into LIFE.
My son couldn’t figure out how to open a bacon package because no one told him how to do it?! ← true story. That was my wake-up call.
Enough was enough.
I stopped answering all the questions. I backed off and let them figure it out. And I took action by making sure we had a lot of opportunities for them to practice these skills in our homeschool and life.
Basically, I shut up and sat down.
Here you can see our Candy Science from the STEAM KIDS in the Kitchen book. It is our newest STEAM KIDS book, and we really like it, especially my kiddo, that loves to bake.
They had to do quite a bit of problem-solving, and I love that they did it in ways I would never think of.
And I loved that they learned what happens if the stick touches the bottom.
How fun to get science you can eat!
How We Fit STEAM/STEM Activities In Our Homeschool
My kids need a schedule. They like to know what is expected each week, and they love checklists.
This works for us since I also have a pretty demanding work schedule that is not very flexible. I work outside the home full time while homeschooling my kids. I really wanted a day to connect with my kids, learn something fun, and bonus if it checked off an educational box.
Adding something new and fun ended up being the challenge of fitting it in without overwhelming myself or the kids.
I started with my reason for wanting to do it.
What would be my goal?
- Adding fun.
- Letting the kids learn and explore something new.
- Connecting with my kids.
As a busy mom, finding ways to buy out the time to spend with my teens is not always easy. All of us are busy and running around.
I didn’t want to add “another thing” to our schedule.
This is how we added in STEM/STEAM and kept the overwhelm at bay.
- We ended up swapping one “science block” a week for a STEAM activity.
- We choose one day a week and aim to limit it to a one-hour block.
- We focused on taking our time and on learning while having fun!
This means one subscription box or kit will last a month for us.
A book or project can last several months.
We dig out food, and drinks, settle in to learn something and have fun.
Why I Love Adding Hands-On STEAM/STEM Activities In Our Homeschool
My favorite part of doing these fun activities with my kids is that I get to connect and learn right along with them.
I also love how we get to explore topics that we would otherwise miss.
Great topics such as:
- Caves and Crystals
- Solar Energy
- Northern Lights
- Bones
- Space
- Geology
- Science of Magic
- Electricity
- Food/Candy
- Just to name a few!
Sometimes I need to throw out some great questions to get my kids thinking and talking. Dayna has a 10 questions printable here you may want to check out for getting started with Science.
STEAM/STEM Activities And Resources For Older Kids
Now that you know why STEAM and STEM are important for kids of all ages. You need the “what to use” part.
As a busy mom, I love it when someone else does the work for me. It saves me so much time!
That is why I am sharing some of the resources I’ve used or that came highly recommended to me.
This makes it easy for you.
Scan the list below, and take note of anything that might be fun to add to your homeschool program OR that you know your kids will love.
Hint: I like to create a list on Amazon, so I can check them all when I am done. Here is an example of one of my “Amazon Lists” so you can see what I mean.
This one is for Homeschool Fun & Games.
For the record, this is not our “main science” program. Three days a week, they work on the science program they choose.
I am stating this because some of these activities clearly state they are for younger kids. Or they do not seem to be “high school level.”
For me, that is fine. We do it as an added bonus. Plus, you can always add to the programs by digging deeper into anything that catches their attention.
I use them to have fun AND learn. Not to just check off boxes. You do what works for your family.
That said, all of these are aimed at older kids.
STEM/STEAM Subscription Boxes
Subscription boxes are one of my weaknesses. I LOVE them.
It’s like a gift to me because everything is done for you and arrives at your door.
1. Science Expeditions from Little Passports:
Perfect for teens who like to build, learn, and discover in science. Give your kids the world! The best kits inspire the imagination and keep kids interested and engaged. That’s exactly what you get with Little Passports’ monthly subscriptions!
Little Passports Science Expeditions – Science Experiment Subscription Box for Kids | Ages 9+
Science Expeditions is designed for ages 9 and up, revealing mysteries of the world through science experiments & activities.
You’ll find our written thoughts on this box along with the unboxing videos of all the boxes we have received here: Science Expeditions.
2. Groovy Lab in a Box
They provide boxes full of everything you need to learn about and do hands-on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) experiments for ages 8+.
They do ship to Canada, and the box even comes with a section called “Beyond the Box,” which outlines ideas to do the box activities as a STEM Team of four. You can find out more here!
We are still in the middle of our first box from them. You can watch the unboxing video below to see what came in our box:
Or click here to watch it on Youtube.
3. STEM Lab Deluxe Box
For those who are not familiar with the Science Club, from Steve Spangler, here is a quick overview:
The Spangler Science Club was designed to inspire the next generation of scientists. They focus on hands-on learning through experiments and inquiry-based activities.
They currently offer 3 different subscription types:
- STEM Snack
- STEM Lab
- STEM Lab Deluxe (this is the one I’m unboxing below)
- And they have several books and kits available as shown below.
Steve Spangler’s Mind-Blowing Science Experiments for Kids and Their Families: 40+ exciting STEM projects you can do together (Steve Spangler Science Experiments for Kids)Steve Spangler Science String Slime Deluxe Kit, Includes Pink, Blue, Yellow & Clear (3.4 oz. Each) – DIY Slime Science Experiment Kit for Kids, Learn/Teach Science of Polymers, Exciting STEM ActivitySteve Spangler’s Super-Cool Science Experiments for Kids: 50 mind-blowing STEM projects you can do at home (Steve Spangler Science Experiments for Kids)Steve Spangler Science Energy Stick ConductorSteve Spangler All About Air Science Kit – Hands-On Science Kit for Kids with 7+ Activities, Great STEM Tools for Classroom and Home Learning
Each month you receive a box filled with the science tools and resources you need to conduct fun, hands-on experiments at home.
Below you’ll see an unboxing video of our first STEM Lab Deluxe Club Box!
4. Green Craft Kids
Green Craft Kids is a subscription box that includes STEM learning for future scientists, artists, and innovators.
You get 4-6 screen-free, hands-on projects per box! Perfect for kids ages 3-10+.
How it works:
- Visit Green Craft Kids
- Choose the box that fits your family (at this time, they have 2 options)
- Your monthly box will arrive with 4-6 STEM activities and projects inside
5. Tinker Crate Subscription Box
Tinker Crate is from KiwiCo, which currently offers 6 different boxes for different age groups.
With this Crate, you get:
All the materials you need to do the project.
Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions.
Detailed instructions with design inspiration
Video Tutorials
The Tinker Crate is a subscription box designed for ages 9-16.
We have this one on our list because, again, everything comes in the box, and I’ve heard amazing things about it. You can read how Dachelle’s kids use it here.
The Doodle Crate is designed for ages 14+.
With this crate, you get:
All the materials you need to do the project.
Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions.
Detailed instructions with design inspiration
Video Tutorials
STEM Kits on Amazon
I love buying on Amazon because Amazon Prime makes it fast and easy. Delivered right to my door.
1. Tinkering Labs Electric Motors Catalyst STEM Kit.
This kit comes with challenge cards and everything you need including 50+ pieces needed to complete the challenge.
A great way to introduce your kid to robotics, electronics, and more! This kit is designed for ages 8+.
Tinkering Labs Light Pack | Includes 6 LEDs with Wires and Connection Platform | Electronics Educational Kit for Kids 8-12Tinkering Labs Wood Parts Pack | Complete Set of Wood Parts for The Electric Motors Catalyst STEM KitTinkering Labs Complete STEM Kit Collection | Invented by Silicon Valley Engineers for Kids 8+ | Includes All 4 Tinkering Labs Learn Electronics, Science | Great Gift for Smart Kids
Not sure if it fits your child? Read the reviews on Amazon for Thinking Labs Electic STEM Kit, or read Annette’s review of what her son thought of it.
2. littleBits Kits
These kits have great products and wonderful reviews. Some local libraries are even stocking them up for the kids.
littleBits Rule Your Room KitLittlebits Coding Kit WinderlittleBits Electronics Deluxe KitSphero littleBits at-Home Learning Starter Kit – Learn The Basics of Electronics & STEAM – Ages 8 & UplittleBits Starter Kit
Encouraging kids to problem solve, build and create.
3. ThinkFun Gravity Maze Marble Run Logic Game and STEM Toy
One of the best seller items on Amazon, the Gravity Maze Marble Run Logic Game contains 60 challenges from beginner to expert, a game grid, 9 towers, 1 target piece, and 3 marbles designed for ages 8+. Perfect for those of you who are gameschoolers.
4. Sphero SPRK+ STEAM Educational Robot
These look amazing for kids interested in Robotics. I kind of want one for myself.
SPRK+ is Sphero’s complete educational robot designed to teach programming and problem-solving through hands-on activities. Designed for ages 12+.
Sphero Mini (Green) App-Enabled Programmable Robot Ball – STEM Educational Toy for Kids Ages 8 & Up – Drive, Game & Code with Sphero Play & Edu App, 1.57Sphero SPRK+: App-Enabled Robot Ball with Programmable Sensors + LED Lights – STEM Educational Toy for Kids – Learn JavaScript, Scratch & Swift
Don’t forget you can add them to your cart or wishlist on Amazon. The great thing about doing that is when the item goes on sale, they will send you an email. It’s a great way to save money.
5. Snap Circuits
These have been on my list for a while. The great thing about shopping at Amazon is you can sort your search by age.
My kids love Lego, and this looks like a great way to add STEM activities to their building activities.
Here are a few kits that have caught my eye.
Snap Circuits BRIC: Structures ~ Brick and Electronics Exploration Kit
This one has over 20 STEM & Brick Projects.
Complete with 20 Snap Circuits Snap modules 75 bric-2-snap adapters over 140 fully compatible building bricks full-color, easy-to-read idea manual appropriate, ages 8+. You’ll need 3AAA batteries, not included.
Snap Circuits Snaptricity Electronics Exploration Kit
It contains over 75 projects for your kids to explore. Ages 14+.
Projects relate to electricity and magnetism and how they are used in the home
- Includes: meter, electromagnet, motor, lamps, switches, fan, compass, and electrodes
- Includes 40+ parts
- No tools, everything snaps!
Snap Circuits 203 Electronics Exploration Kit | Over 200 STEM Projects | Full Color Project Manual | 42 Snap Modules | Unlimited FunSnap Circuits Code Journey, Build Your Circuit, Code Your Commands, and Drive, Bluetooth Controlled, STEM Building Toy for Ages 8 to 108Snap Circuits LIGHT Electronics Exploration Kit | Over 175 Exciting STEM Projects | Full Color Project Manual | 55+ Snap Circuits Parts | STEM Educational Toys for Kids 8+,MultiSnap Circuits Pro SC-500 Electronics Exploration Kit | Over 500 Projects | Full Color Project Manual | 75 + Snap Circuits Parts | STEM Educational Toy for Kids 8 +Snap Circuits Elenco My Home Electronics Building Kit for Kids Ages 8 and Up
6. Lego Chain Reactions
6. Lego Chain ReactionsThis Lego Chain Reaction Set comes with two step-by-step instruction books and building pieces.
This kit includes:
- Set of both Klutz LEGO kits: 2 books and LEGO pieces
- Chain Reaction Kit has 33 LEGO unique pieces, 6 plastic balls, string, paper ramps and other components
- Crazy Contraptions Kit includes 105 LEGO bricks, gear & axle, all you need to create 16 unique projects
- And two photo guide books
Set of both Klutz LEGO kits: 2 books and LEGO piecesAccording to the reviews great for age 8 and perfect for gifts!
Here are 2 other kits from Lego:
Klutz Lego Gear Bots Science/STEM Activity Kit for 8-12 yearsLEGO Gadgets (Klutz Science/STEM Activity Kit) 10.25
7. Engino
These kits are for ages 8 and up. Engino has kits for mechanics, levers, linkages & structures. Focusing on bringing complex designs into simple focus.
According to the reviews, these kits are great for 12+, both in a homeschool setting or classroom.
By the way, the reviews are a great place to see inside photos and find out more about each item.
Here are a few kits that came recommended:
Engino Discovering Stem: Levers, Linkages & Structures Building Kit
Your child will build 16 working models such as a seesaw, a movable weight scale, a wheelbarrow, a parking gate, a toy with moving figures, a pantograph and two types of linkages, and 8 structures.
Comes with 14 pages of theory and facts, a 4-page quiz, and 7 pages of experimental activities illustrating the uses of levers and linkages.
Engino Discovering STEM Mechanics Wheels, Axles and Inclined Planes
And here are a few more Engino kids for older kids:
Engino- Inventor STEM Toys, 90 Motorized Models, Educational Toys for Kids 7+, Engineering Kit, Stem Building Toys, Gifts for Boys & GirlsEngino- STEM Toys, Physics Laws: Inertia, Friction, Circular Motion, Construction Toys for Kids 9+, Educational Toys, Gifts for Boys & Girls (6 Model Options)Engino Toys – Creative Engineering Maker Pro Robotized 100 Models Set | Robotics and STEM Activities | for Ages 10+ (CE101MP-A)Engino- Stem Toys, Construction Toys for Kids 9+, Mechanics: Levers, Linkages & Structures, Educational Toys, Stem Kits, Gifts for Boys & Girls (16 Model Options)Engino- Stem Toys, Educational Toys for Kids 9+, Newton’s Laws Inertia, Kinetic & Potential Energy, Construction Toys, Gift for Boys and Girls
STEAM & STEM Books
Is there anything better than learning from a book? I love the color photos, flipping through and discovering what’s inside, and having them on hand whenever I need them.
My problem with Science books is that sometimes I don’t have the materials on hand that is needed. This is the downside of living in a small space.
That said, with a little planning, a list, and a lot of reminders, we have had a blast with books. E-books are a great option if you need the space and to save money, but I’ll admit I’d rather hold the book in my hand.
1. STEAM KIDS
I love and highly recommend the STEAM KIDS books. They use everyday items or easy-to-find items locally or online.
They break down each step in an easy-to-understand format. Although the age requirements are ages 4-10, I would recommend reading reviews and deciding for yourself what will work for your kids and what won’t.
I currently have ages 14 and 16 who both enjoy digging in, learning, and having fun.
My only regret is I got the PDF copies and wish I had purchased them from Amazon. If you want the PDF copies, you can get them here at STEAM KIDS Store.
STEAM Kids: 50+ Science / Technology / Engineering / Art / Math Hands-On Projects for KidsSTEAM Kids in the Kitchen: Hands-On Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math Activities & Recipes for Kids (STEAM Kids Books)STEAM Kids Christmas: Science / Technology / Engineering / Art / Math Activity Countdown for Kids
2. Maker Lab: 28 Super Cool Projects
This book provides a step-by-step breakdown for each of the 28 Super Cool Projects and is appropriate for kids ages 8–12.
It also includes ranks each project as easy, medium, or hard, with an estimated time frame for completion.
Using all “household materials, young makers can build an exploding volcano, race balloon rocket cars, construct a lemon battery, make sticky slime, and more. ” –Amazon
3. STEAM Lab for Kids: 52 Creative Hands-On Projects for Exploring Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (Lab Series)
This book, STEAM Lab For Kids, caught my eye for my creative kid. I love to find ways to encourage her to connect art, something she loves, to math, something she doesn’t.
“Each of the projects in this book is designed to demonstrate that the deeper you look into art, the more engineering and math you’ll find. There’s a science to great art. From graphite circuit comic books to edible stained glass, young engineers and artists alike will find inspiration. “ – Amazon description.
4. The Everything Kids’ Science Experiments Book: Boil Ice, Float Water, Measure Gravity
These books are amazing. We’ve always enjoyed The Everything Kids series throughout the years because they use everyday household items and explain everything so well.
They also include great thought-provoking questions.
Such as:
- Is it possible to blow up a balloon without actually blowing into it?
- What is inside coins?
- Can a magnet ever be “turned off”?
5. Science in Seconds for Kids: Over 100 Experiments You Can Do in Ten Minutes or Less
Science in Seconds provides 108 activities in this book covering twelve different subject areas, perfect for busy moms!
This book boasts that every experiment can be done in 
10 minutes or less. When time is a problem, grab this book and go!
Maker Lab: 28 Super Cool Projects (DK Activity Lab)The Everything Kids’ Science Experiments Book: Boil Ice, Float Water, Measure Gravity-Challenge the World Around You! (Everything® Kids)STEAM Lab for Kids: 52 Creative Hands-On Projects for Exploring Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (Volume 17) (Lab for Kids, 17)Science In Seconds.
There you have 17 STEAM & STEM activities, projects, kids and books for your older kids and teenagers.
Did you know you can use the FREE Notebooking Pages for your kids to make cool reports to record what they learned? This is perfect for your homeschool portfolios or just for fun.
Grab them here:
Free Notebooking Pages Product Sampler from NotebookingPages.com.
To find the Science Pages:
- Log in
- Click on My Member Center at the top right
- Choose Free Membership
- Under YOUR FREE NOTEBOOKING PAGES & RESOURCES, choose Free Science
- Click the one you want, choose your page, print and go!
I love using Notebooking pages for my teens instead of boring lined paper. If you are not familiar with the site, learn how to get started (for free!) here.
We love adding science experiments to give us a break from our normal work, a way to connect, laugh and learn. Do you use STEAM/STEM activities in homeschool? If so, what is your favorite one?
Our adventure into STEAM all started with one book, you can learn more about how STEAM Kids sparked learning fun in my kids here.
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Hi, I’m Jen. I help working moms juggle their career and homeschool their kids by providing support, systems and tools. You are warmly invited to Join the Online Community Here!
