Independent STEM Exploration | Las Vegas

Exploring STEM concepts independently can help students flexibly study topics that interest them at their own pace. Encourage your child to deepen their understanding of science, technology, engineering, and math concepts on their own and look for opportunities to learn together as a family. There are a multitude of resources to support independent exploration, including social media, online learning platforms, and visiting in-person events and institutions. Below are some useful resources for supplemental learning in STEM.

Social media

  • YouTube: YouTube videos are a great resource for your child to learn STEM concepts at their own pace. There are an array of informational videos and project tutorials that your child can use to expand learning on STEM subjects.
  • TikTok: TikTok can be an easy way to find fun, family-friendly STEM activities to do with your child. TikTok provides short videos to offer numerous ideas for new learning. Here are some channels and hashtags to get you started:
    • STEM Content Creators: @alexisnikole, @gigilstemkitsforkids, @chemteacherphil, @that_stem_guy
    • Hashtag Search Examples: #stemactivities, #scienceisfun, #stemchallenge, #stemchallengesforkids, #stemteachersoftiktok, #scienceexperiments, #stemproject

Online learning platforms

  • Khan Academy: Khan Academy offers educational tutorials and examples in math, science, and more. Information is tailored to different age groups and skills levels that can be catered to your child’s needs. Some courses that might appeal to your middle schooler are: Get ready for 7th grade Math, Middle school physics – NGSS, or NOVA Labs.
  • Tinkercad: An online design lab, Tinkercad can be used by your child to interact with 3D objects, build structures, and design items. Search the gallery for design inspiration, explore hands-on projects to do at home, or utilize the resources to find lesson plans and challenges for your child.

Events and Institutions in Las Vegas

Search for events in your city where your child can try new STEM projects and meet other children with an interest in the field. There are many libraries, museums, and interactive spaces in Las Vegas that offer year-round activities. Here are some organizations and events to explore near you:

  • Discovery Children’s Museum: Children’s Museum in Las Vegas that fosters a fun and engaging educational environment through interactive exhibits and informal learning experiences.
  • Las Vegas Natural History Museum: Natural history museum exhibiting artifacts from prehistoric to present times. This museum also hosts a variety of educational events for children. Upcoming events can be found here.
  • Paradox Museum Las Vegas: Interactive museum with mind-bending exhibits using optical illusions, including a reverse room and a camouflage wall, plus photo opportunities.
  • Las Vegas Science & Technology Festival: nine-day science festival all across the Las Vegas valley. Through engaging and educational programming, the Festival strives to spark curiosity and highlight the amazing science, technology, engineering, and math taking place right here in our community.
  • Vegas PBS STEAM Camp: Weekly broadcast series for children ages 6-8, designed to bring the fun and discovery associated with camp directly into viewers’ homes. A phenomenon-based question drives each episode’s exploration and the program utilizes community experts, interactive at-home STEAM challenges, and literacy extensions to support inquiry-based learning and conceptual understanding.