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The Simple STEM Box That Sparks Big Curiosity at Home

When you need easy indoor play, a DIY STEM kit can save the day!

June 8, 2025

Summer is here! And with it comes long sunny days and lots of time outdoors. Until it rains. Filling rainy days (or really hot ones) can be just as engaging as days spent outside with a STEM box. With just a little prep, you and your child can spend hours in exploratory play. As an added bonus, you and your child can put the box together!


This article is sponsored by Reach Cyber Charter School.





STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. A STEM kit is a way to keep open-ended materials in one, organized place so that when you or your child is looking for an easy activity, all you have to do is take out your box. They are perfect for inspiring creativity, curiosity and critical thinking. One of the best parts about STEM boxes is that they can be tailored to your child’s age and interests!

How To create your STEM box:

Creating a STEM box is easy and affordable, and you probably have many materials on hand already. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Choose a container. A shoebox, cardboard box, or plastic bin works great.
  2. Gather household items. Recyclables like paper towel rolls, cardboard, and bottle caps are perfect for building and experimenting.
  3. Add craft and learning tools. Think pipe cleaners, popsicle sticks, measuring cups, string, magnets, rubber bands — whatever inspires tinkering.



Simple household items are all you need to create a STEM box that will keep kids entertained and learning at home.


STEM Learning with Reach Cyber Charter School

At Reach Cyber Charter School, STEM is a part of everything we do.

In addition to sending every student an official Reach STEM kit to use in hands-on STEM experiences, our teachers incorporate project-based learning (PBL) opportunities throughout the curriculum to support students in cultivating creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking skills.


See how Reach Cyber brings STEM to life.
Reserve your spot today in a weekly informational session to find out more!


Reach Cyber Charter School also offers various STEM camps and clubs catering to students' interests, such as Coding for Elementary, Environmental Science, and eSports. Throughout the year, students can engage in events like Back-to-School gatherings, Pi Day celebrations, and the Winter STEM Challenge. To expand access, Reach operates a Mobile STEM Lab, which brings hands-on experiences to students across Pennsylvania.

For those eager to explore STEM opportunities available at Reach Cyber Charter School, we invite you to attend one of our weekly Virtual Information Sessions.


Want to learn more about how Reach Cyber Charter School makes STEM learning exciting and accessible? 
Join a weekly Virtual Information Session to explore what’s possible!


FAQs About STEM Boxes and Reach Cyber Charter School

1. What’s a STEM box?
A hands-on kit with materials for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math activities that spark creativity and problem-solving.

2. Can I make one at home?
Yes! Use items like cardboard, string, and bottle caps—plus some craft supplies—for endless DIY learning fun.

3. What age is it for?
Any age! Just tailor the materials and challenges to your child’s interests and skill level.

4. How does Reach Cyber support STEM?
They provide free STEM kits, virtual clubs, and even a Mobile STEM Lab to make learning accessible and exciting.

5. Why is STEM learning important?
It builds curiosity, critical thinking, and real-world skills your child will use for life.

6. How do I get started with Reach Cyber?
Join a Virtual Info Session to explore their programs and see if it’s a good fit for your family.