Winter STEM Challenge Cards for Kids

Looking for engaging winter STEM challenges that build problem-solving and engineering skills? These Winter STEM Challenge Cards are a flexible, hands-on resource for teachers and caregivers who want meaningful STEM learning without a complicated setup.

Using simple materials like toothpicks, marshmallows, popsicle sticks, and cardboard, kids tackle real-world winter problems through open-ended design challenges. These activities work well in the classroom, at home, or during winter break—no snow required.

What Are Winter STEM Challenge Cards?

Winter STEM Challenge Cards are open-ended engineering prompts that encourage kids to think, design, build, test, and improve. Instead of following step-by-step instructions, students are given a problem to solve, allowing creativity and critical thinking to take the lead.

Each challenge supports the engineering design process and helps kids practice skills like planning, collaboration, testing ideas, and learning from failure.

Types of Winter STEM Challenges Kids Can Explore

This collection of winter STEM challenges focuses on real engineering problems kids can relate to during the winter season.

Build Winter Shelters & Structures

Kids design structures that protect against cold, wind, and snow. These challenges focus on stability, shape, and insulation.

Examples include:

• Building an igloo
• Designing a winter shelter

Solve Winter Engineering Problems

Kids tackle practical winter problems by designing tools and devices.

Examples include:

• Engineering a snow shovel
• Designing a snowball launcher
• Creating winter tools that work efficiently

Winter STEM Challenge Ideas by Grade Level

These winter STEM challenges can be adapted for a wide range of ages. Use the grade bands below as a general guide.

Preschool to Kindergarten (Ages 4–6)

• Build an Igloo – Use marshmallows and toothpicks to create a dome-shaped structure.
• Design a Snow Fort – Build a fort using blocks, LEGO® bricks, or recycled materials.
• Build a Snowman – Create a 3D snowman using simple craft materials.

Grades 1–3 (Ages 6–9)

• Build a Sled – Design a sled using popsicle sticks and foil.
• Design a Ski Jump – Explore slopes and angles using cardboard and tape.
• Build an Animal Den – Create a warm shelter for an animal using natural or recycled materials.

Grades 4–5 (Ages 9–11)

• Build an Iceberg Raft – Test buoyancy and balance using simple materials.
• Construct a Snow Shovel – Engineer a tool that can move “snow” efficiently.
• Create a Snowflake Structure – Build a structure inspired by snowflake shapes.

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Suggested Supplies for Winter STEM Challenges

Use what you already have on hand. Simple materials work best.

• Toothpicks
• Marshmallows
• Popsicle sticks
• Cardboard
• Aluminum foil
• Tape, glue, scissors
• Yarn or string
• Cotton balls
• Pipe cleaners
• LEGO® bricks
• Winter-themed items (great for dollar store finds)

💡 The free printable below includes a more complete supply list.

How to Use Winter STEM Challenge Cards

1. Print and laminate the cards for durability.
2. Set out materials in bins or stations.
3. Present the challenge and let kids plan their designs.
4. Build, test, and improve designs.
5. Reflect and record using the included journal pages.

These winter STEM challenges work well as:

• STEM centers (free STEM Lab Guide here)
• Early finisher activities
• Winter break projects
• Indoor recess challenges
• Family STEM nights

Add the Engineering Design Process

Each winter, STEM challenges naturally support the engineering design process, helping kids understand how engineers solve problems.

Engineering Design Process Steps:

• Ask – What is the problem?
• Imagine – What are possible solutions?
• Plan – What materials will you use?
• Create – Build your design.
• Test – Does it work?
• Improve – What can you change?

Free Winter STEM Challenge Cards & Journal Pages

Explore these seasonal STEM challenge resources:

• Snowflake STEM Challenge Cards
• Groundhog Day STEM Challenge Cards
• Valentine’s Day STEM Challenge Cards
• Spring STEM Challenge Cards

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Age GroupPre-KKindergartenElementary GradesMiddle SchoolHome School

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Winter STEM in the Classroom and at Home

Winter STEM challenges are easy to use anywhere and help kids stay engaged during cold months when outdoor play is limited.

They are:

• Engaging – Hands-on and creative
• Flexible – Adaptable for many ages
• Skill-Building – Focused on problem-solving and engineering
• Curriculum-Friendly – Supports STEM learning goals

Explore More Winter Science and STEM Activities

Pair these challenges with hands-on science investigations for deeper learning.

• Winter Clothing Insulation Experiment
• Snowstorm in a Jar
• Frost on a Can
• Crystal Snowflakes Experiment
• Winter LEGO STEM Cards

💡 Find even more Winter Science Experiments here.

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