Crayon Cookie - 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.

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Age Group Best Served: K-8

Child/Adult Ratio: 6 to 1

Take Away Artifact: Yes

Approximate time: 30 minutes

Divisions Covered: All

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Materials:

A variety of crayons with wrappers removed. Oven-safe molds (muffin tin or other shape), bowl and mortar (can be a dowel), Air Fryer

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Question to ask:

How can you change the shape of a crayon?

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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

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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

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Social skills

• Ability to communicate and share equipment with peers/staff appropriately

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K-8 Standards:

3.PS1: Matter and Its Interactions 1) Describe the properties of solids, liquids, and gases and identify that matter is made up of particles too small to be seen. 2) Differentiate between changes caused by heating or cooling that can be reversed and those that cannot. 3) Describe and compare the physical properties of matter, including color, texture, shape, length, mass, temperature, volume, state, hardness, and flexibility.

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Simple Science:

Crayons can melt (Become liquid) when heated at a temperature of 120-147 degrees Fahrenheit. They will return to a solid state at room temperature.

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This activity would be appropriate completed by the following disciplines:

Occupational Therapy, LCSW, Family Services, Industrial Art

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Instructions:

Select a variety of crayon color pieces (enough to fill the mold). Using a bowl and pestle, apply pressure to the crayons to slightly crush and mix colors. Place the crushed crayons into the mold and place in the air fryer at 200 degrees for approximately 5 minutes. Remove and cool. When cool, remove from the mold. Your crayon cookie can be used to create art.

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Precaution: Molds will be hot; use caution.

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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