Engaging in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) activities at home can be both educational and enjoyable for teens with autism. Activities like constructing a volcano or producing stop-motion animation offer hands-on learning opportunities that foster problem-solving skills, focus, and creativity. This blog post outlines four DIY STEM projects perfect for home execution, using simple materials to stimulate your teen's interest in science and technology.

Sensory-Friendly STEM Activities for Teens with Autism

1) Building a Fidget Maze

The National Autistic Society notes that fidget toys can be a great tool for teens with autism, helping them manage anxiety and improve focus.  

Materials

• Cardboard box

• Craft supplies (paint, markers, colored paper, etc.)

• Marbles or small objects

• Items for sensory elements (felt, bells, crinkly paper, etc.)

Instructions

1. Decorate the cardboard box to create the exterior of the maze.

2. Cut openings on the sides and top of the box to create a path for the marbles or objects to travel through.

3. Glue or tape different textures and objects inside the maze to create sensory elements.

4. Encourage customization! Let your teen personalize the maze with their favorite colors, themes, and textures.

2) DIY Lava Lamp

The calming and mesmerizing effects of lava lamps can provide visual stimulation and relaxation.

Materials

• Water bottle (clear plastic)

• Vegetable oil

• Alka-Seltzer tablets (adult supervision required)

• Food coloring

Instructions

1. Fill the water bottle ¾ of the way with water.

2. Add vegetable oil to fill the rest of the bottle, leaving a small air pocket at the top.

3. Add a few drops of food coloring to the water and oil mixture.

4. When ready to activate the lamp, drop a small piece of Alka-Seltzer tablet into the bottle. The lava lamp effect will begin as the tablet reacts with the mixture.

Important: Adult supervision is required when using Alka-Seltzer tablets.

Tech-Focused STEM Activities

3) Coding Challenge

Coding teaches valuable skills like logical thinking and problem-solving. Many free, beginner-friendly coding websites and apps are available, such as Scratch or CodeMonkey.

Challenge

Here's a simple coding challenge to get started:  try animating a character on the screen to move in a specific pattern, like a square or a triangle.

4. Stop-Motion Animation Project

Stop-motion animation is a fun and creative way to tell a story.

Materials

• Smartphone

• Stop-motion animation app (like Stop Motion Studio)

• Small objects or toys

Instructions

1. Download a stop-motion animation app on your smartphone.

2. Set up your scene using small objects or toys.

3. Take a picture with the app, then move the objects slightly to create the illusion of movement.

4. Repeat steps 3 and 4 to capture multiple frames of animation.

5. Use the app to compile the pictures into a short stop-motion animation.

STEM activities offer a fantastic way for teens with autism to develop focus, problem-solving skills, and creativity.  These DIY projects are a fun and engaging way to learn through play.

Safety Tips

• Always supervise younger teens while completing DIY projects.

• Follow instructions carefully, especially when using household materials.

Modifications

These activities can be modified to cater to different interests or sensory needs. For example, you can use alternative materials for the fidget maze or create a silent lava lamp by omitting the Alka-Seltzer tablet.

STEM Sparks Creativity

These DIY STEM projects for teens with autism are more than just educational tasks; they're stepping stones to discovery, innovation, and personal growth. Dive into these activities and watch your teen's curiosity and skills blossom.

Are you looking for more STEM inspiration? Explore more in our other blogs - there is a treasure trove of activities that spark creativity and learning.