Celebrate Red, White & STEM

Celebrate this Fourth of July with hands-on STEM activities that bring red, white and blue to life! As you celebrate the stars and stripes, encourage your child to team up with siblings, neighborhood pals or family friends to discover how their creativity can transform your festivities.

From innovative experiments to creative challenges, try out the activities below together to fill your Independence Day with fun memories and new traditions!

Red, White and Blue Kaleidoscope

Create a DIY kaleidoscope and explore a brand-new way to see the geometric dimensions of the world! Add a festive twist to your optical instrument with red, white and blue sequins or beads before marveling at symmetrical, swirling patterns.

Crystal Stars

Create the perfect Independence Day decorations with crystal stars. Like many scientists, you can record your observations over time as the crystals grow. This dazzling experiment combines science, engineering and art!

Colorful Fruit Skewers

Create a colorful snack by layering blueberries, strawberries and pound cake on a skewer. This delicious treat is a perfect addition to your family’s Fourth of July celebration! Consider making your own patterns or trying out different fruit combinations.

DIY Eagle Nest

Did you know that bald eagles construct the largest tree nests of any animal? Following in the footsteps of inventors that look to nature for inspiration, you can explore biomimicry by learning from the impressive engineering skills of our national bird. Collect twigs, sticks, moss and other natural materials to create your own eagle nest in this hands-on activity.

Salt Painted Fireworks

The sky doesn’t have to be the only thing filled with fireworks this summer! Spark your creativity with this satisfying salt painting experiment. Will your fireworks be small and mighty or broad and booming?

Confetti Poppers

Nothing says “celebration” like confetti! This STEM challenge is all about being resourceful as you make confetti poppers out of everyday materials. To make your very own DIY confetti popper, follow these simple steps.

Supplies:
Adhesive (hot glue or duct tape)  
Balloon  
Paper  
Scissors  
Upcycled Paper Roll

1. Tie a knot at the bottom of a deflated balloon and cut the top half off. Think of the knot as your anchor!

2. Attach the open side of the balloon to the exterior or interior of your paper roll with tape or adhesive. We recommend using hot glue with adult supervision.

3. Cut paper into fun, tiny shapes. You also can use a hole puncher for perfectly symmetrical circles. Next, add your homemade confetti into the tube.

4. When you gently pull the balloon’s knot, your DIY popper will sprinkle your red, white and blue confetti in the air!
    
5. Customize and decorate your popper to showcase your unique Fourth of July design!

Keep Celebrating With STEM

We hope you have a special Fourth of July celebrating red, white and STEM! Ready to uncover your next discovery? Keep exploring our blog to find the latest STEM activity ideas.