These Santa STEM Challenges might be our favourite Christmas science activities so far. Poor Santa seems to be in a bit of pickle, can you help him out?
Santa STEM Challenge 1
Before the days of radio and satellite navigation systems people used the stars to navigate. The North Star is a useful marker as it remains in one spot in the Northern Hemisphere. Can you find out how Santa could identify the North Star, maybe you could learn about constellations too?
Challenge 2 – Lost Compass
Did you know that the Earth acts like a giant bar magnet creating a magnetic field? Magnetised metals naturally align themselves with this magnetic field. You can ultilise this effect to make your very own compass. Kids Activities Blog has full instructions for making a compass and all you need is a cork, needle and magnet.
Challenge 3 – Broken Toys
Did you know you can make glue from milk? You’ll need an adult to help, but it works surprisingly well.
Challenge 4
Lollystick catapults are brilliant for firing objects through the air and very easy to make using craft sticks and elastic bands.
If you think Santa might need more power than that, you could try a giant catapult!
Challenge 5
- How would you build a shelf?
- What materials could you use?
- How would you attach it to the wall?
- Is the elf heavy?
- How much weight can your shelf hold?
Challenge 6
- How tall can you make the tree?
- Is it easier to build a tall tree if the base is wide?
Challenge 7
- What materials could you use? Try cork, lollysticks, sponges etc.
- How could you make the raft waterproof?
- Is your raft strong enough to hold a small present without sinking?
Can you think of anymore STEM challenges for Santa?
You can download four of the STEM challenges above as FREE printables, more to come soon!
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