Discover #SummertimeSTEM with Scientists in School: Free Educational Resources for Summer Fun
Summer is the perfect time for kids to explore, discover, and dive into the wonders of science right out their front door. At Scientists in School, we believe that learning doesn’t stop when school’s out. In fact, summer is a fantastic opportunity to spark curiosity and creativity in children through hands-on science activities.
Why Outdoor Exploration and Curiosity Matter
Encouraging children to spend time outdoors and engage in scientific exploration is crucial for their development. Here’s why:
- Stimulates Curiosity: Outdoor activities ignite a sense of wonder and curiosity about the natural world, fostering a lifelong love of learning.
- Hands-On Learning: Experiential learning helps children understand complex scientific concepts in a tangible and memorable way.
- Physical Activity: Being active outdoors promotes physical health and well-being, which is essential for growing bodies.
- Environmental Stewardship: Learning about nature and ecosystems encourages children to become mindful and responsible stewards of the environment.
- Creativity and Problem-Solving: Outdoor science activities challenge kids to think creatively and solve problems, skills that are valuable in all areas of life.
Explore Our Top Ten #SummertimeSTEM Resources
We’ve curated a variety of engaging activities that cater to different interests and age groups. Whether your child is a budding biologist, a curious chemist, or just loves to get their hands messy, there’s something for everyone. Some resources are also available in French!
Here’s a sneak peek at what we offer:
Guide to Pond Dipping (Guide 101 - Exploration d’un étang)
Discover the hidden world beneath the water’s surface with our Pond Dipping guide. Learn about the different creatures that live in ponds and how to observe them safely. It’s a great way to introduce kids to aquatic ecosystems and the importance of biodiversity.
Backyard Bird Watch (Observation des oiseaux dans la cour arrière)
Turn your backyard into a bird-watching paradise! Our Backyard Bird Watch activity teaches kids how to identify common bird species and understand their behaviors. It’s a fun way to learn about local wildlife and the role birds play in the environment.
Bees and Wasps: A Buzzing Case of Mistaken Identities! (Abeilles et guêpes : un cas bourdonnant d’erreur d’identité !)
Help your child become a pollinator pro with our guide on Bees and Wasps. This activity helps kids differentiate between these important insects and understand their roles in nature. Plus, it’s a great way to teach respect for these often-misunderstood creatures.
Messy Outdoor Science (Jeux scientifiques salissants pour l’extérieur)
Embrace the mess with a series of outdoor experiments that are sure to captivate your child’s interest. From making mud pies to creating nature art, these activities encourage creativity and scientific thinking.
Combine the fun of bingo with bird watching in BIRD-O! This engaging game challenges kids to spot different bird species and learn interesting facts about each one. It’s perfect for family outings or backyard adventures.
Witness the explosive fun of a Sizzling Ice Volcano! This activity combines chemistry and geology in a spectacular, hands-on experiment that demonstrates volcanic eruptions using safe household ingredients.
Get ready for colorful chemistry with Fizzy Ice Chalk. Kids can create vibrant ice chalk and then watch as it fizzes and melts in the sun. It’s a playful way to explore chemical reactions and artistic expression.
Create a Cool Concoction You Can Eat
Who says science can’t be delicious? With our edible concoction activity, kids can mix up a tasty treat while learning about the science behind food preparation and flavor combinations.
Experience the magic of winter in the summer with our Summer Snow activity. Kids can create their own “snow” and explore the properties of different materials while staying cool in the summer heat.
Let your child’s creativity and curiosity come together with Thumbprint Bugs. Using non-toxic ink pads or washable markers, kids can create adorable bug characters with their thumbprints and learn about the different types of insects they mimic. It’s a fantastic way to explore the world of entomology in a fun and artistic manner.
At Scientists in School, we’re passionate about inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. Our #SummertimeSTEM resources are designed to make it easy for parents to nurture their child’s curiosity and love for science during the summer months. Best of all, these resources are free and easy to download, making them accessible to everyone.
