STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities are an important part of our program, and encourage our kids to use their creativity, think critically, and solve problems, all while having fun!
The winter weather has taken over, and this month, we have some fun and simple literature-based projects that you and your little ones can do together. These are great activities to do on days when you feel like staying cozy inside.
We have had some snow lately, and there is likely to be more ahead, so we thought we would share a couple of snowflake STEAM projects based on the book “Snowflake Bentley” by Jacqueline Briggs Martin. This wonderful book recounts the true story of Wilson Bentley, who photographed and studied snowflakes to reveal that each snowflake has a unique structure and is beautiful in its own way! Click here for a read-along video of the book.
After reading “Snowflake Bentley” with your child, you can do two fun snowflake STEAM projects that will help them to learn about the structure of snowflakes, introduce the concept of symmetry, and encourage them to use their creativity and problem-solving skills. The first project requires only marshmallows (feel free to use a substitute like banana, playdough, or balled up aluminum), toothpicks, and a paper and pen or pencil. For the second project, you will need construction paper and tape, glue, or a stapler! Check out the links below to access these fun wintertime projects!
Marshmallow Snowflake Challenge
Our second book is “Windows” by Julia Denos. In this book, a young boy takes his dog for an evening walk and as he sees the different windows in his neighborhood, he imagines what might be going on in the buildings around him.
Click here for a read-along video of the book
This fantastic book encourages children to hone their creativity and story-telling skills.
Below is a link to a wonderful group of activities by Babies to Bookworms, all designed around “Windows” and the idea of telling stories about the ‘windows in your world.’ The activities include storytelling challenges, a fun shadow activity, suncatchers, and window art. All of these activities require only simple items such as wax paper, construction paper, a sheet, or even just your imagination!
As always, get as creative as you want, and above all else, have lots of fun learning together! Check out the rest of our STEAM Projects page for lots more activities that you can do at home together, and scroll through our website to see how CACC is Building Brighter Futures with the help of our amazing community!