Build an Igloo STEM Challenge
If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to spend time with your kids, the Build an Igloo STEM Challenge is a great choice. It’s a fun hands-on activity that gets them thinking like engineers.
Need even more winter ideas? See this list of winter activities for kids!
My kids always get excited when we try new challenges, and this one is no exception. They get to explore how to create a structure that mimics the way igloos are built, all while learning about the science of insulation and stacking works.
This STEM challenge is fun for both kids and parents, whether it’s part of a winter-themed lesson or just an afternoon activity.
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Fun Igloo Facts for Kids
Igloos are fascinating structures that captivate kids with their unique design and function. Here are some cool facts to explore:
- Largest Igloo Ever Built—The largest igloo ever built was in Zermatt, Switzerland, and it measured an impressive 10.5 m tall!
- Meaning of ‘Igloo’ – The word “igloo” comes from the Inuit word “iglu,” which means “house.”
- Warmth Inside an Igloo – Some igloos can even have a temperature inside that is warmer than the outside, thanks to the insulating properties of snow!
Recommended Winter Books
Winter is the perfect time to curl up with a good book, especially when it’s about all the fun things that happen during the season. Winter books can bring the season to life for kids whether it’s reading about winter animals or learning about the chilly world outside. They offer an engaging way to enjoy the magic of winter together.
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats(1995-09-01)Over and Under the SnowGoodbye Autumn, Hello WinterThe Long Winter (Little House on the Prairie Book 6)Ten Sparkly Snowflakes: Twinkly Countdown Fun!Hiders Seekers Finders Keepers: How Animals Adapt in Winter
Why are STEM activities essential for kids’ development?
STEM activities are such a great way to help kids learn. When my kids start working with building blocks or simple science experiments, I see how they naturally begin to think through problems and figure things out.
It’s not about pushing them to memorize facts but encouraging them to explore, ask questions, and try new things. Those “aha” moments really show how important these activities can be for their growth!
I love how STEM activities keep them engaged and excited to learn. Whether counting, building, or experimenting, these activities challenge their thinking and creativity.
I’ve also seen how my kids are more confident when tackling challenges, even when it’s something outside of a worksheet or playtime. The hands-on experience they get through STEM activities has helped them develop essential skills they’ll use as they grow.
Recommended Winter Toys
During the winter months, I’ve found that certain toys help keep my kids busy and engaged when we can’t get outside. Seeing how their imaginations come alive as they create and learn through play is amazing. These toys not only keep them entertained but also encourage them to use their hands and minds in creative ways!
Colovis 16Pcs Snowman Decorating Kit, Snowman Making Kit Winter Party Kids Toys Christmas Holiday Decoration Gift(1 Pack)Mudpuppy Arctic Life Search & Find Puzzle, 64 Pieces, 23”x15.5” – Complete Puzzle to Find 40+ Hidden ImagesPLUS PLUS – Mini Maker Tube – Winter Snowflake – 70 Piece, Construction Building Stem Toy, Interlocking Mini Puzzle Blocks for KidsWild Republic Polar Nature Tube, Arctic Animals, Kids Gifts, Educational Toys, Party Favors, 13-PieceHasbro Gaming Don’t Break the Ice Game, MulticolorMAGNA-TILES Arctic Animals 25-Piece Magnetic Construction Set, The ORIGINAL Magnetic Building Brand
Key STEM Skills Developed During the Igloo Challenge
STEM activities like building an igloo are a great way for kids to learn and have fun at the same time. This winter science experiment promotes the engineering design process, where they can brainstorm and create their own structures. As they work on their igloo, they’re not just being creative—they’re also sharpening their critical thinking skills by tackling the challenge step-by-step. It’s a hands-on experience that teaches them important lessons and prepares them for the future in a really enjoyable way.
- Problem-solving – Kids figure out how to make their igloo stable and functional.
- Teamwork – They plan, design, and build the structure.
- Creativity – Encourages thinking outside the box to make the igloo unique.
- Critical thinking – Helps kids approach a challenge step-by-step, thinking ahead.
- Confidence – Completing a complex project boosts their self-esteem.
Recommended Winter Activity Kits
Winter activity kits, especially printables, are a great way to keep kids learning indoors. I’ve seen how much my kids enjoy the variety, whether solving a winter-themed maze or practicing their counting with snowflakes. They’re perfect for keeping the winter chill at bay while still having fun and learning new skills.
Winter Activity Supplies
This quick and easy STEM activity requires only a few supplies to start! Take a look at what you need to start having fun:
- Sugar Cubes
- Toy Penguins
How to make a sugar cube igloo?
We had so much fun trying out this igloo-building activity! The best part was how easy it was to set up. I gathered a few simple materials, and the kids were ready to jump in.
At first, they were unsure how it would all come together, but after a little planning, the excitement took over. It’s one of those moments where the process becomes just as enjoyable as the end result.
Watching them work together to create their very own ice castles and solve problems, even with the occasional giggle when things didn’t go as planned, was priceless. Just a little bit of imagination made the activity truly magical!
As they started building, I noticed them becoming more and more involved in the details. They were excited to experiment with different shapes and sizes to see how they could make the igloo stronger. I didn’t give them too many instructions, though. I let them come up with ideas on their own and figure out what worked best.
It’s incredible how much they learn when they can try things out for themselves. It was a great way to let their imagination take the lead.
We ended up with a cool igloo structure, but it wasn’t just about building it. It was all the little moments along the way. The kids learned about trial and error, teamwork, and, most importantly, that it’s okay if things don’t always go according to plan.
They were so proud of what they buiIt. It was one of those simple activities that ended up being a big hit and something we’ll probably do again!
More Winter Activities
There’s no shortage of ways to keep kids busy during the winter season! These activities are not only fun but also help children learn and grow in exciting new ways. From hands-on projects to imaginative play, winter is the perfect time to try something new with your kids!
- Winter Addition Worksheets
- Paper Plate Winter Crafts
- Animals in Winter Activities
- Winter Animals Color By Number Worksheets by Homeschool Preschool
- How to Make Instant Snow at Home by Playing with Rain
Build an Igloo STEM Challenge
This hands-on challenge lets kids design and build their own igloos, using creativity and problem-solving skills. It's a fun way to practice teamwork and engineering concepts while learning about igloos and their structures!
Materials
- Sugar Cubes
- Toy Penguins
Instructions
- Start by creating a circle or square shape for the foundation of the igloo, stacking your materials to form the walls.
- Continue building up the igloo, layer by layer, until you’ve created a structure that holds it together.
- Let your kids experiment with different shapes and sizes!
Notes
This challenge is a fun and engaging way for kids to try some problem-solving while learning about the engineering process. It encourages creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking, all while making the concept of building an igloo exciting and interactive!
Ready to get started? Incorporate this challenge into your lesson plans today and watch your kids have fun while learning! Use different materials to make the experience even more engaging and interactive.