STEM—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math—is a foundation for some of the world’s most important innovations. But it also helps build critical thinking, problem-solving, and curiosity early on. Everyday science activities encourage Pre-K kids to explore, ask questions, and fall in love with learning.
Bright Horizons is a leader in Early Education, and their play-based STEM activities are no exception.
Early exposure to STEM activities offers numerous benefits for children, including stronger cognitive development, increased self-confidence, and a foundation of knowledge in fields that can often feel daunting. It can also pave the way for future success in these areas by sparking interest and building essential skills early on.
Take a deep dive into the details of STEM education and keep reading for simple, playful ways to bring science into your home with Pre-K kids.
Great science activities for pre-k kids
Easy everyday science experiments using household items
We all have household materials that make great STEM tools. The trick is knowing what they are and how to use them. Start by stocking up on a few basic ingredients like baking soda, water, and food coloring. Then, keep the tone light and fun—this encourages your preschooler to explore without added pressure, boosting their confidence.
Involve your Pre-K child in choosing materials. Ask them why they think a particular ingredient or tool will work for the experiment. These conversations are just as valuable as the experiments themselves, helping your child vocalize what they’re learning and see everyday items as innovative materials.
Once you’ve got your supplies, dive in! A classic example is the baking soda volcano: mix baking soda with vinegar in a small container and watch it fizz over. This simple reaction introduces basic chemistry concepts and provides a fun, hands-on experience. You can also try experiments like the magic milk activity or floating and sinking objects. The possibilities are endless: check out this out this excellent list of 20 science activities for preschoolers.
Exploring nature: outdoor science adventures for pre-k kids
Take science outdoors—everything you need is right outside your front door.
Outdoor science for Pre-K can be as simple as observing plants, clouds, and insects, creating a nature scavenger hunt, tracking shadows, or planting seeds to watch them grow. The great thing about nature is how seasonality shapes the science activities available, letting your preschooler learn about the changing world around them.
Nature provides a perfect opportunity to link body, mind, and soul, helping young children tap into their curiosity with natural tools and materials.
For example, try a shadow drawing activity—on sunny days, trace your child’s shadow on the ground and watch how it changes throughout the day. It’s a simple, hands-on way to teach about light and time while being outside.
Everyday science in the kitchen: fun STEM activities for pre-k kids
Simple activities like color mixing with ice cubes, exploring states of matter (ice, water, steam), or making easy recipes can all teach science concepts in a fun way.
Much like baking with your toddler, kitchen science is a hands-on experience that Pre-K children love. Spread out materials on a clean surface, and encourage your child to visualize the entire project, from start to finish.
Take the dancing raisins activity, for example: Fill a glass of clear soda, drop in a few raisins, and watch as they bounce up and down due to carbonation. It’s a fun, easy way to teach about gas and buoyancy.
Bringing everyday science to life: how Bright Horizons supports pre-k learners
Bright Horizons fosters inclusive learning for children of all ages, from newborns to Pre-K. With endless creative STEM ideas, our mission is to make these activities accessible to all families.
Visit our Early Education hub for more resources and support. By incorporating everyday science into your child’s routine, you’re encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity—key skills for future success. Bright Horizons is excited to be part of that journey.
