STEM Busy Boxes for Kids

We all need to keep the kids a little extra busy from time to time. Whether you have to wait for an appointment or are visiting relatives, a few simple STEM busy boxes or mini engineering kits are a great way to keep everyone entertained. I love this mini version because they are so easy to tuck away. Here are just a few ideas to get you started. Go with what your kids love to do. I can’t wait to make more for our vacation week next month. Science and STEM activities are a great way to make learning fun and simple!

SIMPLE STEM BUSY BOXES FOR KIDS

Busy boxes are neat little items to have on hand both for at home or out and about. Our STEM busy boxes explore science, technology, engineering, and math ideas perfect for little hands. We have over 25 regular size busy boxes you won’t want to miss either! A busy box is a perfect way to enjoy a little quiet time too.

Looking for easy to print activities, and inexpensive problem-based challenges?

We have you covered…

—>>> FREE STEM ACTIVITIES

STEM BUSY BOXES SUPPLIES

These are the items we used. Check out our 25 LOW PREP BUSY BOXES for more ideas. Also, our post, STEM ON A BUDGET is a great resource for new ideas.

Boxes! I like boxes that latch rather than snap on because I know for sure they are closed.
LEGO Pieces
Magnet Set
Bottle Caps and Paper Squares
Nuts, Bolts, and Washers
Locks and Keys

STEM BUSY BOXES PREP

Time to prep your busy boxes. I like to make these as a bit of surprise, but your kids can also help. I will stash these away for our trip next month, and they will be like new activities all over again. That’s the beauty of a busy box!

LEGO MAGNET CAR BUSY BOX

LEGO car pieces, Minifigure, and other bricks to build a mini-car! Add a couple of these bar magnets and you have a mini-lesson in magnetism. Have fun driving the car all around with the magnets.

NUTS, BOLTS, AND WASHERS BUSY BOX

Grab a variety of bolts with the appropriate size washers and nuts. Kids will love pairing them up and putting them together. Amazing fine motor work too!

LOCKS AND KEYS BUSY BOX

My son absolutely loves to play with locks and keys. Place a few locks and keys of various sizes into a busy box. It’s amazing how my son will really get into the concept of the lock and key and explore with it around the house.

TOWER BUILDING BUSY BOX

You are probably wondering how I can fit an entire tower building activity into a mini busy box. You can if you use some unconventional materials! How about bottle caps and squares of scrap paper! Yes, you can have a neat STEM challenge with just those two items. You can fit quite a few caps into the box too! If you are using a slightly larger box, plastic shot cups are great for towers.

I hope these mini STEM busy boxes have sparked some new ideas for you! I can’t wait to make more and share them with you. Look around your house and make something new from the old stuff you have. Also, make sure to check out the recycling bin. Read all about STEM ON A BUDGET for more ideas.