Using STEM Projects to Make Learning Fun for Young Students

Trying STEM projects at home is important for young students because it encourages independent learning, critical thinking, and creativity. It allows them to explore scientific and technical ideas at their own pace, deepening their understanding beyond the classroom. 

Hands-on learning builds confidence and problem-solving skill while encouraging students to develop curiosity, which can inspire future career interests. Importantly, home projects can involve family members, making learning more collaborative and enjoyable. 

These STEM projects for young students support a well-rounded, practical approach to education that complements school learning.

  • Design Paper Aeroplanes to Test Flight Distance

Purpose: Introduces students to aerodynamics and physics.
Materials: A4 paper, ruler, pencil, measuring tape.
Instructions: Fold different styles of paper aeroplanes using online guides or your own design. Test each one by flying it from the same spot. Use the measuring tape to record the distance each travels. Discuss which design flew the furthest and why. Encourage experimenting with wing shape or size to see how it affects flight.

  • Make Slime to Explore Chemistry

Purpose: To help students understand chemical reactions and states of matter.
Materials: White PVA glue, baking soda, contact lens solution, food colouring (optional), bowl, spoon.
Instructions: Mix ½ cup of glue and a few drops of food colouring. Stir in ½ teaspoon of baking soda. Add 1 tablespoon of contact lens solution and stir until it forms slime. Knead it by hand until stretchy. Explain how the ingredients react to create a polymer – a substance with both liquid and solid properties.

  • Construct a Balloon-Powered Car

Purpose: To explore motion and energy.
Materials: Balloon, straws, bottle caps, cardboard, tape, skewer sticks, scissors.
Instructions: Cut cardboard for the car base. Attach bottle caps as wheels using skewers as axles. Tape a straw to the top and insert a balloon. Blow up the balloon through the straw, pinch it closed, and release. The escaping air pushes the car forward. Try changing the car’s shape or wheel size to see how it affects movement.

  • Build a Basic Water Filter

Purpose: Shows students how filtration removes impurities.
Materials: Plastic bottle, scissors, coffee filter or paper towel, sand, gravel, activated charcoal, dirty water.
Instructions: Cut the bottle in half. Invert the top half into the bottom to create a funnel. Layer coffee filter, charcoal, sand, and gravel inside. Pour dirty water through the top and watch it come out cleaner below. Explain how each layer removes different types of particles from the water. Note: this is not for making drinking water.

  • Create a Rubber Band-Powered Boat

Purpose: Teaches propulsion and basic engineering.
Materials: Foam tray or sponge, rubber band, plastic paddle (e.g. cut from a yoghurt lid), scissors.
Instructions: Cut the tray into a boat shape. Cut a slit at the back and insert the paddle. Loop a rubber band around the paddle and through notches in the boat to hold it in place. Twist the paddle to wind up the rubber band, then place the boat in water. The unwinding band powers the boat forward. Experiment with paddle shapes or boat sizes.

How Tutor Doctor Can Help Develop STEM Skills

Our tutors help develop STEM skills by providing clear, constructive feedback that guides students through challenges and builds confidence. We encourage curiosity by welcoming questions and fostering a safe space to explore ideas. 

By creating a personalised learning plan, we are able to focus on each student’s strengths while addressing specific areas of weakness. This targeted support helps students gain a deeper understanding of concepts, develop critical thinking, and build the skills needed for long-term success in STEM subjects.

Contact us for a free consultation.