Updated 6/4/24

The pandemic helped grow the popularity of chess exponentially. Makes sense, right? The game only takes two people to play, and, although it has a social aspect, the online versions are generally easy to use. By playing chess, almost anyone can learn critical-thinking, problem-solving, and abstract-reasoning skills at some level. And inventiveness can overcome any boundaries of accessibility.

Topics: IN THE CLASSROOM, IDEAS & INSPIRATION, Teacher Resources, Technology, STEM, Trends, Resources, Engineering, Activities, Hands-on Learning, Math

Updated 6/14/24

Fall is in the air, which can mean more indoor time for kids. What a great time for pumpkin activities! We grow pumpkins on our farm and I love fresh pumpkin pies! But, until I started digging online, I had no idea there were so many engaging and fun opportunities using pumpkins to teach STEM virtually anywhere. 

Topics: IN THE CLASSROOM, BEYOND THE CLASSROOM, IDEAS & INSPIRATION, Science, STEM, Trends, Activities, Hands-on Learning

Updated 6/10/24

Not too long ago, we shared The science of pour painting with you, which introduced a fun way to paint and make STEM connections while exploring you and your students’ creative side. Some kids are naturally drawn to artistic outlets such as drawing, painting, or sculpting, but anyone can learn from attempting to communicate artistically. Learning creative processes and understanding materials can give new meaning to the way you see things in the world. So, let us share another great art process for you to try out.

Topics: IN THE CLASSROOM, BEYOND THE CLASSROOM, IDEAS & INSPIRATION, STEM, Activities, Hands-on Learning, STEAM

Updated 5/23/24

Ice cream is always a big hit in the summertime (and usually year round too if we’re being honest 😉). I don’t know about you, but I don’t think I’ve ever heard someone say they don’t like ice cream. And there are so many ice cream options to choose from! Personally, I grew up with Dairy Queen ice cream, but I won’t turn down any others!

I’ve grown to love homemade – which I didn’t having  growing up – but my husband’s parents made it a tradition to give each of their kids an ice cream maker as a wedding gift, and we’ve about worn ours out. Whether store bought or homemade, there are so many recipes with different flavors and textures – I must try them all! I’m guessing many kids feel the same way. And what if they could learn a bit while they enjoy this cold, yummy goodness?

Ice cream has amazing potential for all kinds of STEM learning activities.

Topics: BEYOND THE CLASSROOM, IDEAS & INSPIRATION, Teacher Resources, Science, STEM, Trends, Activities, Hands-on Learning

Updated 6/11/24

April is National Gardening Month, likely because spring has sprung and we’re itching to get outside. There’s no denying it’s an awesome time to start your gardening season. Personally, I love celebrating this season. My husband and I garden (a LOT) for our farmers’ market stands and ourselves. I love that gardening is something everyone can do – at any age and any scale.

While there are many resources and activities for growing plants at home or in the classroom, I want to focus mostly on outdoor gardening. So let’s dig in. And don’t miss the links at the end to get your kids or students involved.

Topics: IN THE CLASSROOM, IDEAS & INSPIRATION, Homeschool, STEM, Resources, Activities, Hands-on Learning