Plant Germination and Transfer - 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-12

Child/Adult Ratio: 6 to 1

Take Away Artifact: Yes

Approximate time: 1 hour (2 days)

Divisions Covered: All

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Materials:

Day One: Broccoli, Kale and Cauliflower Seeds, paper towels, spray bottles, clear plastic containers (one per student)  

Day Two: paper egg cartons, soil and plastic spoons.

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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:

1.LS1: From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes 1) Recognize the structure of plants (roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits) and describe the function of the parts (taking in water and air, producing food, making new plants).

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This activity would be appropriate completed by the following disciplines:

Occupational Therapy, LCSW, Family Services, Industrial Arts

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Instructions:

Day One: Discuss seeds and germination. Place a paper towel in the bottom of plastic container (or baggie), place seeds on top of paper towel, use a pencil to label seeds as to what they are. Spray with water and place the lid on top. Label container with name and date. Place in a warm (but no hot) place for at least three days.

Day Two (3 or 4 days later): Open container and observe what has happened. Use scissors to cut seeds apart (seed can stay with the paper towel if still attached.) Careful to not cut any new roots or stems. Cut egg crate apart into sections of three. Place a spoonful of dirt in each egg crate. Place seeds with paper towel in a crate and cover with dirt. Spray with water. Crates can be buried in a planter or bed after they begin to sprout above soil.

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Precaution: Make sure hands are washed after working with dirt!

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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