Ocean STEM Activities for Kids
Here are some fun and educational Ocean STEM Activities for Kids that will hold your kids’ attention. Some of them are hands-on projects we do in our homeschool. There’s something about learning through ocean-themed play and experiments that makes everything click a bit better.
Before proceeding to the good stuff, check out my Ocean Activities for Kids collection. It’s loaded with more ideas that combine learning with ocean fun in a way that doesn’t feel like a lesson at all.
Keep reading because I’m sharing a mix of fascinating facts, recommended ocean-themed books and printables, easy-to-find supplies, and a collection of our favorite STEM activities.
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Cool Ocean Facts That Might Surprise Your Child
- The Mariana Trench is the deepest known spot in the ocean, plunging nearly seven miles beneath the surface, deeper than Mount Everest’s height.
- The ocean produces over half of the world’s oxygen thanks to tiny marine plants called phytoplankton.
- Some marine animals, like jellyfish, have no brains or hearts, yet survive and thrive in the deep.
Recommended Ocean Books Kids Will Enjoy
Books are a great way to introduce ocean science in a relaxed way. I always keep a few ocean-themed reads on hand to accompany the activities listed below, and they never fail to keep kids interested.
One of my boys was into sharks and we spent weeks learning ask about them.
Hello, World! Ocean LifeThe Big Book of the Blue (The Big Book Series)Pete the Cat: Pete at the Beach (My First I Can Read)The Rainbow FishCommotion in the OceanStella : The Shark Who Loves Treasure (Ocean Tales Children’s Books)
Why Learning About the Ocean Matters
Learning about the ocean connects kids with one of the most vital parts of our planet. It’s not just about whales and coral reefs. It’s about understanding ecosystems, life cycles, and how human actions affect our world.
In our home, lessons that involve real-world problems, like pollution or animal conservation, naturally lead to deeper discussions. I’ve found that the more we explore ocean science, the more thoughtful questions arise. It opens up space for curiosity and critical thinking in a way that worksheets never could.
Ocean Printables That Work With Any Lesson Plan
I love having printable activities ready to go. They save time and let me adapt our learning on the fly. These ocean-themed printables reinforce science concepts, math practice, or a quiet afternoon at the table.
What can kids learn from these fun ocean STEM projects?
Ocean STEM projects sneak in a lot of learning without feeling like work. Kids can develop:
- Observation and data recording skills: Kids learn to pay attention to small details, note patterns, and track changes like real scientists.
- Basic engineering and design thinking: Building and creating during activities teach kids how to solve problems and experiment with new ideas.
- Early environmental awareness: These projects help kids see the importance of protecting marine life and understanding human impact on nature.
Recommended Ocean Toys That Teach
When I choose toys, I go for ones that encourage problem-solving or storytelling. Ocean-themed toys can do both while adding some creativity to science play.
Ocean BingoNext Move Games Reef Board Game (2nd Edition) | Ocean Themed Strategy Game | Abstract Pattern-Making Game | Family Game for Kids and Adults | Ages 8+ | 2 4 Players | Avg. Playtime 30-45 Mins | MadeSit Down! Dive Board Game – Unique Transparent Ocean Cards, Push Your Luck, Catch a Ride on a Sea Turtle or Dolphin – First to 23 Points Wins, 1-4 players, 20-30 mins, Ages 8+Ecosystem: Coral Reef – A Family Card Game About Ocean Animals, Habitats, and The Food Chain – Board Game for Kids 10+ – Family Fun – Science Classroom Game About Environments – Underwater EcologyOcean-Opoly Monopoly Board GameLogic Roots Ocean Raiders Number Sequencing & Addition Game – Fun Math Board Game and STEM Toy for 5 – 7 Year Olds, Perfect Educational Gift for Kids (Boys & Girls), Home Schoolers, Kindergarten & Up
Supplies Needed for These STEM Activities About the Ocean
- Clear plastic bottles or jars
- Vegetable oil
- Blue food coloring
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Baking soda and vinegar
- Plastic sea animals
- Seashells
- Jello and cornstarch
- LEGO bricks
- Pattern blocks
More Ocean Activities To Try
If you’re planning an ocean theme this season, it’s worth exploring more options. There are so many ways to combine science, math, and creativity around the ocean.
- Ocean Tracing Worksheets
- Ocean Activity Mats
- Ocean Activities for First Grade
- Ocean Sensory Bag by Homeschool Preschool
- Printable Ocean Charades Game by Darcy and Brian
Did you enjoy these ocean STEM ideas? I hope they provide as much learning and fun for your home as they do for ours.