Spread some holiday cheer with a flying Santa STEM challenge. This fun, hands-on science activity is perfect for home or school and uses just a few basic materials.
The Flying Santa STEM pack has a template, instructions, a results table and an experiment write-up sheet!
I also have a collection of downloadable Santa STEM challenge cards you might like.
Flying Santa STEM Challenge
You’ll need
- Straw
- Paper
- Tape
- Scissors
- Ruler or tape measure
- Pencil/pens
Flying Santa Instructions
Cut out the rectangle shape, fold it in half and seal the top and long side opposite the fold with tape. This section needs to fit loosely over the straw.
Cut out the Santa image and stick it to the folder paper section.
Place Santa on the end of the straw and blow down the straw. Santa will fly into the air.
Measure how far Santa travels using the ruler. Repeat this 3 times, trying to use the same amount of force as you blow and point the straw at the same angle.
Why does Santa fly?
When you blow air down the straw, it travels to the end and pushes its way out, taking the Santa rocket with it as it moves. The harder you blow into the straw, the more energy the air has, and the further Santa will fly!
More Christmas Science for Kids
Keep the kids and elves busy with my 24 FREE elf challenge cards, one for each day of Advent.
Last Updated on November 12, 2025 by Emma Vanstone
