Nature STEAM for Kids

Explore logic and reasoning, engineering, and fine motor skills with your preschoolers and kindergartners using this quick and easy Nature STEAM activity. Don’t forget to add this engaging and hands-on idea to your list of STEAM activities for your next preschool art or nature theme. You’re definitely not going to want to miss it!

collage of nature STEAM activity images with text: Nature STEAM Activities for Little KidsI’m so excited to share today’s STEAM investigation with you. If you’ve been following along with us, then you know we just started our art studio preschool theme. Today we’re learning about architecture and discussing the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Colosseum, and more.

preschooler using textured rolling pin to roll out playdoughThis post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you if an item is purchased through one of these links.  For more information, please see my full disclosures.

A huge thanks to Experience Early Learning (formerly Mother Goose Time) for providing us with their Experience Preschool curriculum for free in exchange for sharing our honest and authentic stories resulting from our personal experiences. It’s been such a huge blessing to us! As always, my opinions on awesome stuff for little kids are 100% my own.

preschooler pushing small sticks into playdough
We’re practicing our engineering skills while answering the question, What types of buildings are made of wood? And of course, we’re exploring all things construction in the process.

preschooler using sticks and playdough to make buildingsNature STEAM

Investigation & Inquiry, Logic & Reasoning

Set Up

  • Sort various nature items into bowls. Set out trays and playdough. Encourage children to construct any desired building with the materials. If desired, display photos of buildings to inspire children.

preschooler's nature construction using sticks, playdough, and stonesBig Questions

  • What buildings do you see on your way to school?
  • How can you create a sturdy building?
  • Can you tell me about your building?
  • Would you want to be someone who constructs buildings?

preschooler rolling playdough into ball for nature construction activityObserve

  • Does the child notice changes that occur during construction and apply that knowledge to new exploration?

preschooler's nature construction made using sticks, playdough, and stones
We used a variety of nature items including sticks, quartz pieces, stones, and wood slices. You could also add pinecones, leaves, or seashells. The possibilities are endless with open-ended engineering activities like this nature-inspired STEAM for kids.

preschooler pressing wood slice into playdough during nature building activity
Your preschoolers will have a wonderful time using nature items to explore architecture while practicing lots of important early learning skills in a fun and meaningful way with this nature STEAM activity.

preschooler's nature construction made using sticks, quartz pieces, playdough, stones, and wood slices
Don’t forget to check back if you’re interested in seeing what we’re up to next week with our Art Studio preschool theme from Experience Preschool!

collage of nature STEAM activity images with text: Nature STEAM Activities for Preschoolers