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STEAM in Libraries: T is for Technology

STEAM: Science / Technology / Engineering / Art / Math


Next up in our series of STEAM activities in the library is T for Technology! Technology is anything that aids humans in a specific task. This can mean something as ancient as an abacus or as advanced as a jet pack. The activities having to do with technology are endless, but we have a few ideas of where to start! Below are activity ideas broken down by age range.


Young Children (Ages 2-5)

There are many fun experiments for young children around the Internet that would be great additions to any public or school library activity program, but technology can mean a lot of different things, so the options are endless! One website offers a new and unique idea: teach technology though technology! Heidi Songs is a teaching tool that uses videos and music to teach visual and tech literacy to young children. This is a great way to encourage kids to start thinking about science, and in a way that requires no materials. So if you're new to STEAM programming or you're apprehensive about giving kids circuit-building tools, singing and movement is always a wonderful alternative for turning kids on to a new idea.



Elementary-Aged Children (6-12)

This age range is the perfect time to get kids working on electronics! Not only will it help them understand their own world and the tools they use daily, but circuit-based projects are always a huge hit! There are many examples of these that can be found online, but a simple homemade battery is a classic for a reason! The potato clock is also an inexpensive and fun way to teach about electricity and circuits.



Teens (13-18)

There are hundred of examples of popular tech experiments for teens, but those having to do with electronics and/or coding are especially hot right now. Many public libraries have invested in Raspberry Pi or Makey Makey kits, which contain simple components and instructions meant to introduce a young person to tech. I would also recommend the experiment which has teens building their own mini-robot that can make art! Also known as a scribble bot, these tiny robots require the purchase of a motor but otherwise is made using common, inexpensive materials.

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