Explore the magnetic field in a brand new way with just a magnet and jingle bells. This STEAM activity for kids is a hands-on way to discover the power of the magnetic force.
“Look at this Mom”
“Wow, did you see that Mom?”
I lost count how many times I heard the word “Mom”…
That is how excited Lil B (6) and M-Woww (4) were while they were exploring and discovering how they can paint with a jingle bell and a magnet.
Try this activity on a blistery cold winter afternoon to add some excitement and playful learning for your child.
This activity takes less than 2 minutes to set up and it helps your child explore the concept of the magnetic field.
STEAM is the combination of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) plus ART.
I believe Art (or creativity) is an essential part of the critical thinking process, especially for young children.
JINGLE BELL STEAM ACTIVITY FOR KIDS
This STEAM activity combines Science and Art to challenge your creative thinker and understand how a magnet can move another object, in this case, jingle bells.
Materials:
Jingle Bells
Magnet
White Card stock paper
Washable Red and Green Paint
Tape
Cookie Sheet
Tutorial
1. Tape your piece of white paper to the cookie sheet.
2. Place your jingle bells on the white paper and place the magnet on the underneath side of the cookie sheet.
Let your child explore moving the jingle bells around the paper with the magnet. Practice before adding the paint.
3. Place a small squirt of red and green paint on the paper.
PARENT TIP: Mix a little water with your paint before you place it on the paper. The jingle bells will “roll” easier through water downed paint.
6. Use the magnet to move the jingle bells through and around the paint. Have your child try to move the bells fast, slow, across the page or in circles.
Activity Extensions:
Play the song Jingle Bells as your child is painting.
Try to paint with the jingle bells by rolling the cookie sheet back and forth with your hands. M-Woww (4) had fun trying to make the jingle bells roll.
QUESTIONS TO ASK:
Why do you think the magnet can move the jingle bell?
What other objects are magnetic?
What is another magnetic object could you try to paint with?
STEAM activities for kids do not have to require a lot of time or expensive materials. You can connect your child’s love to discover and explore with many science and art concepts that are quick and easy to do at home.
For more Christmas themed STEAM activities, check out our book, STEAM Kids Christmas
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