STEM/STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) skills are essential for young learners because they foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity but also lay the foundation for future career opportunities.
As parents and teachers, we have a crucial role in nurturing children’s interest and understanding in STEM subjects.
To support parents and teachers in their endeavor to educate children about STEM, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the top STEM resources.
There is an ongoing debate about whether there is a big difference between STEM vs. STEAM, but it is clear that STEAM education at home can help children throughout early education.
These resources encompass a wide range of interactive tools, online platforms, educational games, and hands-on STEM activities for kids that make learning STEM engaging and enjoyable.
From introducing coding concepts to exploring the wonders of the natural world, these resources are designed to inspire curiosity, ignite imaginations, and cultivate a lifelong love for STEM.
Whether you’re a parent looking to teach STEAM at home or a teacher seeking to enhance classroom instruction, this list will equip you with the tools and knowledge to foster a rich STEM education.
General STEM/STEAM Resources
In the quest to provide children with a well-rounded education, general STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and STEAM (STEM + Arts) resources play a vital role. These resources are designed to inspire curiosity, promote critical thinking, and foster a love for inquiry-based learning.
General STEM/STEAM resources for parents and teachers encompass a wide array of tools, activities, and materials. They provide opportunities for children to explore and engage with various STEM disciplines, including coding, robotics, mathematics, engineering, and scientific experimentation.
These resources encourage hands-on learning experiences, allowing children to develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and collaboration.
As you look for resources, be sure to keep in mind how you can integrate hands-on learning opportunities and engaging STEAM activities like:
- STEAM Science Activities: Hands-on experiments that encourage kids to explore natural phenomena and understand the world around them.
- STEAM Technology Activities: Coding activities and robotics projects that enhance digital literacy and critical thinking.
- STEAM Engineering Activities: Design challenges and construction tasks that stimulate problem-solving and creativity.
- STEAM Arts Activities: Projects combining creativity and tech, like digital drawing or music, fostering innovative thinking.
- STEAM Math Activities: Puzzles and games that make abstract concepts tangible, promoting logic and numerical understanding.
Whether through science educational kits, online platforms, or community-based initiatives, general STEM/STEAM resources offer a diverse range of learning opportunities. They empower parents and teachers to facilitate immersive and engaging learning experiences, unlocking the potential of children to become future innovators and leaders in STEM fields.
By leveraging these resources, we can nurture a new generation of thinkers and problem-solvers ready to tackle the challenges of our ever-evolving world.
1. Top STEAM Activities For Kids
Check out our comprehensive tool for educators and parents seeking the best STEAM activities for children. The platform curates high-quality, grade-specific resources, ranging from simple experiments to complex projects. With user reviews and detailed instructions, it streamlines the process of finding age-appropriate, engaging STEAM activities.
https://www.wondernoggin.com/steam-activities-for-kids/
2. NSTA Classroom Resources
With over 800 vetted lesson plans, book chapters, videos, and simulations, NSTA curators provide recommendations to align them seamlessly with the vision of NGSS. Enhance your teaching today!
https://ngss.nsta.org/classroom-resources.aspx
3. Science Friday
Science Friday collaborates with educators and scientists to develop a diverse range of free STEM activities, lessons, and resources suitable for all learners. Looking for a change of pace? Take a break and explore captivating science podcasts on their platform.
https://www.sciencefriday.com/educate/
4. SciFri Book Club
Science Friday’s SciFri Book Club aims to unite individuals through a shared interest in science literature, encompassing a diverse range of genres from sci-fi tales and nonfiction works to scientific articles and even poetic expressions. Join this community created by Science Friday and delve into the captivating world of science reading.
https://www.lapl.org/scifri-book-club
5. PBS Learning Media
Explore a wealth of FREE, standards-aligned videos, interactives, lesson plans, and additional resources thoughtfully curated by PBS SoCal | KCET and PBS for educators and parents alike. Enhance learning experiences with engaging and aligned content.
https://ca.pbslearningmedia.org/
6. STAR_Net STEM Clearinghouse
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or student, easily supplement your curriculum or enjoy engaging home-based learning. Explore curated collections, search by audience, content level, difficulty, and more. Plus, visual aids like pictures and videos enhance the experience.
http://clearinghouse.starnetlibraries.org/
7. NASA STEM @ Home
Explore NASA’s STEM @ Home page for exciting projects like constructing moon habitats and launching rockets! Discover age-appropriate STEM ebooks for download, and find activities tailored to grade level, type, and subject for both students and teachers.
https://www.nasa.gov/stem-at-home-for-students-k-4.html
8. Stuck at Home Science by California Science Center
Discover engaging science activities for families using common household supplies on the webpage. Visit daily at 10 a.m. to explore a fresh activity and have fun while learning!
https://californiasciencecenter.org/stuck-at-home-science
9. STEM/STEAM Learning and Crafts by Scholastics
Explore an engaging assortment of entertaining STEM/STEAM activities suitable for home-based learning on the webpage. Discover a blend of enjoyable educational resources that promote hands-on exploration and inspire curiosity in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.
10. Keep Learning Resources for Families
Explore the “science” section on Families in Schools’ Keep Learning resource page to discover a curated compilation of online learning resources. Engage your children or students with enjoyable and interactive science activities available on these websites.
https://www.familiesinschools.org/coronavirus-learning-resources-for-families/
11. Hacking STEM Library by Microsoft
Discover a wide range of downloadable, teacher-tested projects and activities for your little ones to enjoy. These engaging resources utilize everyday materials, making STEM education affordable, accessible, and enjoyable for all.
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/education/education-workshop/activity-library.aspx
12. CS Unplugged
Explore the world of computer science even without a computer through CS Unplugged! Discover a wealth of free teaching materials that use interactive games, puzzles, cards, string, crayons, and physical activity to engage learners in learning computer science concepts.
13. Code at Home by Girls Who Code (GWC)
Girls Who Code provides free downloadable CS educational activities for everyone. Weekly releases of online and offline activities, with different difficulty levels, will continue over the coming months. Each activity showcases a pioneering woman in tech and her innovative contributions.
https://girlswhocode.com/code-at-home/
14. STEM/STEAM Teaching Tools
STEM Teaching Tools is a website dedicated to supporting effective teaching practices in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.
It provides educators with a range of resources, including lesson plans, strategies, and research-based tools, to enhance student learning and engagement in STEM subjects.
https://stemteachingtools.org/
15. The Ultimate Ultimate Guide To Kids Coding Languages For Parents
The Ultimate Guide To Kids Coding Languages For Parents – Discover the top programming languages, tools, and resources to help your child embark on an exciting journey into the world of coding and technology. Unlock their creative potential today!
https://www.wondernoggin.com/kids-coding-languages/
16. Edutopia – STEM Resources
This resource highlights how these disciplines are interconnected and essential for problem-solving and innovation. The article delves into various examples and strategies for integrating STEM education into everyday life and preparing students for future career opportunities.
https://www.edutopia.org/article/stem-everywhere-science-technology-engineering-and-math-real-world
17. National Education Association (NEA) The 10 Best STEM Resources
This STEM teaching tool offers a variety of lesson plans, activities, and teaching tools designed to enhance STEM education and engage students in hands-on learning experiences.
The page is a valuable hub for teachers seeking innovative resources to promote STEM learning in their classrooms.
https://www.nea.org/professional-excellence/student-engagement/tools-tips
18. PBS (Public Broadcasting System) STEM Page
PBS LearningMedia is an online STEM resource provided by PBS for educators in Florida. It offers a diverse collection of engaging multimedia materials, including videos, lesson plans, interactive games, and articles.
These resources cover a wide range of STEM topics, enabling teachers to effectively incorporate hands-on activities and digital media into their STEM lessons, and promoting interactive and immersive learning experiences for students.
https://florida.pbslearningmedia.org/
19. eGFI, Website of the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE)
This amazing STEM resource is designed specifically for educators and parents. It offers a wide range of engaging materials, including lesson plans, classroom activities, articles, videos, and professional development opportunities.
With its user-friendly interface and extensive content, it equips teachers with the tools they need to inspire and educate their students in science, technology, engineering, and math subjects.
20. PhEt Simulations form the University of Colorado, Boulder
The PhET Interactive Simulations website (phet.colorado.edu) is a highly valuable STEM resource that offers a vast collection of interactive simulations covering various scientific and mathematical concepts.
Developed by the University of Colorado Boulder, these simulations provide hands-on learning experiences, allowing students to explore science experiments with complex phenomena, reinforcing conceptual understanding and critical thinking skills.
Accessible for free, PhET simulations are widely used by educators, students, and researchers worldwide to enhance STEM education.
21. Teaching Channel
Teaching Channel (teachingchannel.org) is a comprehensive online resource for STEM educators.
With a vast library of high-quality videos, lesson plans, and professional development materials, it offers a valuable platform for teachers to enhance their instructional practices.
It fosters collaboration and knowledge-sharing among educators, empowering them to create engaging and effective STEM learning experiences for their students.
https://www.teachingchannel.org/
STEM/STEAM Resources For Parents
Teaching STEAM at home can be challenging for parents, but the good news is that there are a myriad of tools to ignite their children’s interests in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. From science educational websites, and online courses to at-home experiment kits, these resources aim to foster critical thinking and creativity in kids.
Choosing the right materials will depend on the child’s age, interests, and skill level. It’s not about making every child a scientist or engineer but about nurturing curiosity, resilience, and problem-solving skills, which are crucial in today’s fast-evolving world.
Remember, your engagement and enthusiasm can significantly influence your child’s learning journey.
22. Parent’s Guide To Teach STEAM
Learn how to teach your little one STEAM. This guide covers everything from asking the right questions for a young learner concepts, and activity ideas to use.
The platform encourages interdisciplinary learning by integrating science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, making it an invaluable asset for inspiring the next generation of innovators.
https://www.wondernoggin.com/teaching-steam/
23. A Parent’s Guide to STEM
The STEMx Parents’ Guide to STEM is a comprehensive resource designed to support parents in understanding and engaging their children in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.
This user-friendly guide offers practical advice, resources, and STEM activities to foster a love for STEM learning, nurture critical thinking skills, and encourage curiosity and exploration. It equips parents with the knowledge and tools to inspire and empower their children’s STEM education journey.
https://stem2hub.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/STEMx-Parents-Guide-to-STEM-2020.pdf
24. Green 360 Careers
Green360 Career Catalyst is a comprehensive online STEM resource that empowers students and professionals interested in sustainability and environmental careers.
With a user-friendly interface, it offers a wealth of information, including career guidance, job listings, internships, science educational programs, and industry insights.
It serves as a one-stop platform for individuals passionate about making a positive impact on the planet.
https://green360careercatalyst.net/
25. Career Counseling- National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity (NAPE)
The STEM Careers for Students resource offered by the National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity (NAPE) is a comprehensive professional development program designed to equip counselors with the tools and knowledge needed to guide students toward successful careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
Through interactive training modules, counselors gain insights into industry trends, diversity and inclusion in STEM, and strategies for fostering student interest and engagement in STEM careers, ensuring they are well-prepared to support students in their STEM journey.
https://napequity.org/professional-development/counselor-training/stem-careers-students/
26. A Parent’s Guide to 21st-Century Learning
The resource “Edutopia Parent’s Guide to 21st Century Learning” is a comprehensive document designed to support parents in understanding and engaging with their child’s science education in the modern era.
This 50-page guide covers a wide range of topics, including project-based learning, technology integration, social-emotional learning, and assessment strategies.
It offers practical tips, research-based insights, and real-world examples to empower parents in fostering their child’s academic growth and development in the 21st century.
https://www.isd518.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/edutopia-parents-guide-21st-century-learning.pdf
STEM/STEAM Tools For Teachers
STEM/STEAM education presents an interdisciplinary approach to learning, encompassing Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Various resources exist to assist teachers in effectively implementing STEM/STEAM curricula.
K-12 educators need the best resources to help build STEM curricula and STEM programs, so we put together a list of the best resources for you.
These range from lesson plans and activity kits for K-12 students to virtual platforms and professional development workshops. They are designed to facilitate experiential learning, encourage creativity and critical thinking, and cultivate 21st-century skills in students.
By using these resources, teachers can inspire curiosity, make learning more relevant and exciting, and prepare students for future careers in fast-evolving fields.
27. Campus Ties
This is a comprehensive online STEM resource that connects students, educators, and professionals in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
With a user-friendly interface, it offers a wide range of features, including forums, virtual collaboration tools, resource libraries, and job listings.
CampusTies fosters a vibrant community, empowering individuals to learn, share knowledge, and network with like-minded individuals, ultimately enhancing their STEM journey.
28. CLEAN
This STEM teaching resource offers a wealth of materials and tools for educators and learners to explore and understand clean energy concepts.
With interactive STEM lessons, data visualizations, and real-world case studies, CLEAN equips users with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage with renewable energy technologies and sustainable practices.
https://cleanet.org/index.html#.VIG0EQ3PLQQ.twitter
29. Energy.gov
The Energy Literacy Videos resource provided by the U.S. Department of Energy offers an engaging and informative collection of educational videos focused on energy-related topics.
Covering a wide range of subjects, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and energy production, these videos provide clear explanations and visuals to enhance understanding and promote energy literacy.
With concise and accessible content, this resource is an excellent tool for students, educators, and anyone interested in learning about the fundamental concepts and importance of energy in our daily lives.
https://energy.gov/eere/education/downloads/energy-literacy-videos
30. MIT Blossoms
Enjoy this engaging and educational STEM resource provided by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
This online video resource features a captivating presentation that explores the scientific concept of alpha particles. Through clear explanations and interactive demonstrations, learners gain a deep understanding of this fundamental particle and its significance in various fields of study.
https://blossoms.mit.edu/videos/alpha
31. NASA Digital Learning Network
The NASA Digital Learning Network (DLN) is an innovative STEM resource provided by NASA’s Office of Education.
It offers a dynamic platform where students and educators can engage in interactive virtual experiences, such as video conferences, webinars, and live chats with NASA experts. Through the DLN, participants can explore various space-related topics, access NASA’s vast resources, and gain a deeper understanding of scientific concepts and space exploration.
https://www.nasa.gov/offices/education/dln2.html
32. Open Commons Educational Resources
The STEM resource available at OER Commons is a comprehensive collection of literature-based STEM books accompanied by corresponding STEM activities.
It offers a diverse selection of engaging books that integrate science, technology, engineering, and math concepts with captivating storytelling. Each book is paired with hands-on activities, encouraging learners to explore STEM topics in a creative and interactive manner.
https://oercommons.org/authoring/50524-literature-based-stem-book-list-corresponding-acti/1/view
33. PhET
PhET is a comprehensive STEM resource that offers a collection of free, interactive simulations for teaching and learning various science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts.
Developed by the University of Colorado Boulder, these simulations provide hands-on virtual experiences that engage learners of all ages in exploring and understanding scientific phenomena.
With a wide range of topics covering physics, chemistry, biology, earth science, and more, PhET simulations foster inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
34. Planetarium
Stellarium Web is a powerful and immersive STEM resource that provides an exceptional virtual planetarium experience. With its user-friendly interface, users can explore the night sky from any location on Earth and at any time in the past, present, or future.
This interactive tool offers detailed views of stars, constellations, planets, and other celestial objects, allowing students and astronomy enthusiasts to deepen their understanding of the universe.
35. Save on Energy
SaveOnEngergy.com is a comprehensive guide provided by SaveOnEnergy.com, focusing on the fundamental principles and processes behind electricity.
With clear and concise explanations, accompanied by illustrations and diagrams, it covers topics such as electrical circuits, power generation, transmission, and consumption. This resource serves as a valuable tool for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of electricity and its practical applications.
https://www.saveonenergy.com/resources/how-electricity-works/
36. Science Fair Projects
Science Buddies is an invaluable online STEM resource that aims to inspire and support students, parents, and educators in exploring the world of science.
With a vast collection of hands-on project ideas, science fair guides, and helpful tools, Science Buddies fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry, empowering individuals to engage in meaningful scientific exploration and discovery.
https://www.sciencebuddies.org/
37. Tinkercad
Tinkercad is a user-friendly and intuitive online platform that empowers students and beginners to explore the world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
With its easy-to-use interface, Tinkercad allows users to design and create 3D models, circuits, and even code. It offers a wide range of tools, tutorials, and STEM projects, making it an ideal resource for learning and experimenting with various STEM concepts.
Enjoy The Best STEAM/STEM Resources Today!
Nurturing STEM curiosity in children requires both creative resources and committed guidance. The resources shared, including interactive apps, hands-on kits, online courses, and inspiring books, offer a multifaceted approach to STEM education for teachers and parents. They serve as excellent tools for sparking interest, deepening understanding, and fostering innovation in young minds.
Remember, the key to successful STEM education lies in creating a fun, engaging, and thought-provoking learning environment. These resources are just the stepping stones on the journey to raising the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.
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