Build A Simple Hovercraft

Can you make a homemade hovercraft that actually hovers? Learn about how the hovercraft works and build your own mini hovercraft at home or in the classroom from simple supplies. Play with engineering and science with this easy STEM project for kids!

How Does A Hovercraft Work?

A hovercraft is also known as an air cushion vehicle or AVC because it can glide over a smooth surface by hovering on an air cushion. Hovercraft can travel over land, water, mud, ice and other surfaces.

Hovercraft use blowers to produce a large volume of air below the hull, or air cushion. The difference between the higher pressure air below the hull and the lower pressure of the air above it produces lift. That is what causes the hull to float above the surface.

Find out how to build a mini hovercraft below with our free printable project. Here you will use a balloon to increase the volume of air below the a CD hovercraft and lift it. Make sure to download the free printable hovercraft project below and let’s get started!

STEM Activities For Kids

So you might ask, what does STEM actually stand for? STEM is science, technology, engineering, and math. The most important thing you can take away from this, is that STEM is for everyone!

Yes, kids of all ages can work on STEM projects and enjoy STEM lessons. STEM activities are great for group work, too!

STEM is everywhere! Just look around. The simple fact that STEM surrounds us is why it’s so important for kids to be a part of, to use and to understand STEM.

From the buildings you see in town, the bridges that connect places, the computers we use, the software programs that go with them, and to the air we breathe, STEM is what makes it all possible.

Interested in STEM plus ART? Check out all our STEAM Activities!

Engineering is an important part of STEM. What is engineering in kindergarten, and elementary? Well, it’s putting together simple structures and other items, and in the process learning about the science behind them. Essentially, it’s a whole lot of doing!

Helpful STEM Resources To Get You Started

Here are a few resources that will help you introduce STEM more effectively to your kiddos or students and feel confident yourself when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.

Get your FREE printable hovercraft STEM project!

How To Make A Homemade Hovercraft

Leftover balloons? Why not try this balloon and soda experiment, make electric cornstarch, balloon lungs or even try this fun screaming balloon experiment.

SUPPLIES:

Balloon
CD or DVD
Pop up top
Hot glue

INSTRUCTIONS

STEP 1: Hot glue a pop up top to the center of a CD or DVD. Push the top down to close.

STEP 2: Blow up the balloon and twist it closed.

STEP 3: Carefully keeping the balloon twisted, stretch the end over the pop-top.

STEP 4: Now pop open the top and watch your hovercraft travel! Use a smooth surface like a floor or countertop.

TIP: Cover the center hole of the CD with a piece of tape and poke a few holes in the tape with a push-pin or small nail. This will slow down the flow of air and allow your hovercraft to hover longer.