Bio Peanuts - STEAM Lesson
STEAM activities use hands-on learning—like building, experimenting, and exploring—to boost critical thinking and creativity. For children and siblings facing pediatric cancer, these activities are more than just schoolwork; they bring back a feeling of normalcy, success, and confidence during a difficult time.
STEAM education helps kids learn vital skills, connect with others, and have fun! These at-home STEAM activities let children and siblings facing pediatric cancer explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math in a fun, comfortable setting.
Age Group Best Served: K-12
Child/Adult Ratio: 6 to 1
Take Away Artifact: No
Approximate time: On going & open ended
Divisions Covered: All
Materials:
Large bag of Bio Peanuts and damp sponges
Questions to ask:
What does it mean when something is Biodegradable? How are biodegradable packing materials good for the Earth?
Skills Required for Completion of Task:
Motor skills
- Bilateral upper extremity coordination
- Ability to manipulate small objects
- Hand-eye coordination
- Ability to grip objects
- Ability to stabilize objects/task
Process/Cognitive skills
- Ability to attend to task for greater than 5 minutes
- Follow multi-step directions
- Ability to sequence steps
- Ability to understand safety precaution
- Ability to organize or keep materials organized for task
- Ability to adjust to different workspace requirements
Social skills
- Ability to communicate and share equipment with peers/staff appropriately
K-8 Standards:
K.ESS3: Earth and Human Activity. 3) Communicate solutions that will reduce the impact from humans on land, water, air, and other living things in the local environment.
This activity would be appropriate completed by the following disciplines:
Occupational Therapy, LCSW, Family Services, Industrial Art
Instructions:
Build a structure by using a sponge to moisten the peanuts and sticking them together. At the end of the week, move the structure outside and spray it with water to show students how biodegradable items quickly break down in nature.
The Austin Hatcher Foundation is a nationally recognized leader in psycho-oncology care, providing innovative, evidence-based services for families facing pediatric cancer. Through a holistic approach, the Foundation supports the emotional, mental, and social well-being of children, siblings, and parents—ensuring families have the resources to heal and thrive during and after treatment.
Through programs like STEAM Club and at-home resources like these, we encourage creativity, build confidence, and strengthen connections through hands-on learning. To learn more about our programs or to request comprehensive support, visit https://www.hatcherfoundation.org/resources/request-an-appointment
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