When you think about it, some of the best movies and books have spies. I remember as a child loving Harriet the Spy and Encyclopedia Brown to the point where I would carry a notebook in my little backpack and write notes about my grandparents as they smiled at each other, pretending they couldn’t see me. As I got older, I found Nancy Drew. The idea of spying and learning is a great way to introduce STEM activities to your children and have a great time doing it. Let’s get started on creating a secret spy school for your kids!
It’s Laser Time
Now, in every spy movie you see, there is a point where they need to get through the lasers to get to the hidden room, object, or message. Using your hallway, you can do the same thing. If you want more room to maneuver, you could try a laser course in a bedroom as well. Using a thread (try red if possible), create a maze in your chosen space and then ensure it is securely taped to the wall. Create a pattern that is challenging (but still manageable), and your children will have a wonderful time!
Fingerprints
If you want to study fingerprints, you don’t need an expensive kit. You need a magnifying glass, a pencil, tape (clear), and a piece of paper. Please have your child draw a square and fill it in. Then, place a finger in the middle and press the same finger onto a piece of tape. Peel the tape and place it on the paper; your print should show up clearly. With the magnifying glass, they can study their prints. Add yours to the mix, and you can make it a family activity.
Secret Codes
Making a secret code doesn’t have to be difficult, either. Get some watercolor paper, white crayons, paint brushes, and water-based color markers. Using the paper, write a message in white crayon, but be sure to press down harder than you usually would. Then paint over the area with the markers, and the secret message will be revealed. If you can write backwards, you can add another element to this part.
Another fun idea for this is to use invisible ink pens, which can be ordered online. One side features invisible ink, while the other side is equipped with a UV flashlight that reveals the ink. A fun way to utilize secret codes to make a poster with a bunch of sticky notes and write a number invisibly. Then set up a poster board on the floor and have your kids step on their designated number, but not touch any other number. When they get it right, they get a prize or a secret clue to the next station.
Target Practice
If you’ve got Nerf guns or something similar, you can have your children shoot at targets. If you don’t have Nerf guns, a balled-up sock ball does just as well. Using cardboard cut-out fun shapes, or stick with the basic target circle, and then draw on a piece of paper what you want the target to look like (think a white circle that says pow, bang, etc). Glue the white paper to the cardboard and set the targets up in a room or on the stairs, and see how many times they can hit the target.
Agility
Spies need to be in shape, and if you want your kids to be the next super spy, this is going to be fun. Choose the longest table you have and ensure you’re in a room with ample space. Under the table, tape a bunch of balloons in a pattern. Then send your child to crawl under in a military-style formation and see if they can make it through without touching or popping a single balloon.
Entering The Dark
If you have another table, pair it with a cardboard box and a sheet to create a dark tunnel. If you have a child who is afraid of the dark, this activity may not be something they enjoy. However, to make it less scary, you can use fairy lights to tape on the sides of the tunnel.
Additional Ideas
If you’re looking for more ideas for your own spy school, I highly recommend this site. It offers numerous options and provides step-by-step details, explaining the reasoning behind why these activities are considered STEM.
Ready To Spy?
Having your own spy school can be an excellent experience for your family, and the best part is that it doesn’t take a lot of money or artistic skill. You need to have fun with it, and your family will too! So, grab your gear and your spy kits and get ready to learn!
Jenifer Dale is a writer that has a passion for reading and helping others. When she is not writing, she loves cooking, crocheting, and spending time with her family.