Outdoor STEM Activities
Outdoor STEM Activities are a great way to mix fresh air with hands-on learning. When the weather warms up around here, I try to take as much of our learning outside as possible.
If you’re looking for even more ways to keep the kids busy this season, check out my list of STEM Activities for Kids. I’ve gathered many ideas to help you make the most of summer.
Keep reading for details, resources I’ve used, and a list of the best hands-on outdoor STEM ideas that work for different ages and interests.
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Benefits of STEM Activities
Something about building, testing, and tweaking grabs a child’s attention in a way worksheets never could. My kids light up when they use real-world materials and solve actual problems—even if that “problem” is figuring out how to make a contraption that launches a ball across the yard.
Outdoor STEM has allowed me to support their curiosity without making it feel like formal instruction. They’re learning measurement, observation, cause-and-effect, and more. And the best part? They often don’t realize how much they pick up along the way.
Recommended STEM Books for Curious Minds
I like keeping a few STEM-focused books on hand, especially ones with experiments and challenges we can try outside. They’re a great backup when I need something low-prep that still counts as learning.
STEAM Kids: 50+ Science / Technology / Engineering / Art / Math Hands-On Projects for KidsThe Curious Kid’s Science Book: 100+ Creative Hands-On Activities for Ages 4-8Awesome Engineering Activities for Kids: 50+ Exciting STEAM Projects to Design and Build (Awesome STEAM Activities for Kids)Awesome Physics Experiments for Kids: 40 Fun Science Projects and Why They Work (Awesome STEAM Activities for Kids)Awesome Kitchen Science Experiments for Kids: 50 STEAM Projects You Can Eat! (Awesome STEAM Activities for Kids)100 Easy STEAM Activities: Awesome Hands-On Projects for Aspiring Artists and Engineers
Why Take STEM Outside?
Sometimes, just changing the setting can make a big difference in how kids respond to learning. Getting outdoors gives them space to experiment, move around, and explore more naturally.
- Many outdoor activities double as great science or engineering lessons
- Nature makes a perfect backdrop for experiments and observation
- Kids tend to focus better when they can move their bodies and breath in the fresh air
My Favorite Summer Printable Packs
For days when the weather doesn’t cooperate or we need a quiet break, I keep a few printable packs on hand. They offer the same fun, seasonal vibe while reinforcing early math and critical thinking.
The Benefits of Outdoor Activities
Getting outside shifts the energy in the best way. I’ve found that even when moods are a little off, stepping into the backyard for a simple activity can reset the whole day.
Plus, nature offers so much built-in learning. Whether we’re tracking shadows, listening to birds, or just watching clouds move, it all adds up to meaningful time spent together.
Recommended Outdoor Toys
I try to keep a small stash of tools and toys that support creative outdoor play. Think about things they can build with, mix up, test, or reuse in different ways.
Toddler Sensory Kids Table with Lid | Sensory Bin | Kidoozie | Mega Block Compatible Lid | Indoor Outdoor Use , Red, G02521 17 x 12.5 x 11 inchesNewFamily Dustless Chalk for Kids, Colored Sidewalk Chalk With Holder,Non-Toxic Washable Toddlers Chalks Drawing Writing for Outdoor Art Play,Blackboard(12 Pcs)Nerf Vortex Aero Howler Foam Ball, Classic Long-Distance Football, Flight-Optimizing Tail, Whistling Sound, Indoor & Outdoor Fun, Christmas Stocking Stuffers for KidsOtoseth Toys Rocket Launcher for Kids – Launch up to 100 Ft, 8 Multi-Color Foam Rockets & Adjustable Launch Stand, Kids Outdoor Toys, Birthday Toys for Kids Boys Girls Age 3+ Years OldHey! Play! Hopscotch Ring Game-10 Multi-Colored Plastic Rings and 15 Connectors for Indoor or Outdoor Use-Fun Creative Play Set for Girls and BoysEducational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Kidnoculars, Binoculars for Toddlers & Kids, Easter Basket Stuffers for Kids, Gift for Toddlers Ages 3+
More Summer Activities To Try
If you’re putting together your summer plan, you’ll want a mix of easy wins and activities that hold their attention longer. Here’s a starting point:
- Backyard Activities for Kindergarten
- Summer Workbooks for Elementary Kids
- Road Trip Activities for Kids
- Summer Pictionary Game by Darcy and Brian
- Summer Color By Number Printables by Simple Everyday Mom
STEM-based outdoor activities have brought so much variety and joy to my children’s lessons. Whether planting seeds or launching bottle rockets, these experiences stick with my kids in ways that worksheets don’t. I hope you find something in this list that works for your kids, too.