10 STEAM Bin Ideas & How to Use Them in the Classroom

Dec 31, 2023

by Jenna Kimber

We have been hearing about the importance of integrating STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) into the classroom for the last several years. Giving time for students to explore their own questions and curiosities sparks creativity. It can feel overwhelming to find ways to implement meaningful STEAM lessons in a general education or content-specific class, which is why teachers have been conveniently using STEAM bins.

STEAM bins are organized boxes filled with open-ended manipulatives for students to create with. Students can choose what they want to create or teachers can give tasks, like "create the tallest structure" or "make hearts out of the items in your bin."

Here are some student-favorite STEAM bin items to consider using in your classroom.

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This set of wood blocks from Amazon comes with a deck of cards with images. Students try to create matching images to the card with the blocks.

Magnetic blocks allow students to engineer 3D figures.

Students can create huge structures by connecting these straw toys. Bonus: This set comes in a plastic pin ready-to-use.

Brain flakes are great for older elementary students. Their unique shape allows for more complex building projects, such as this tree.

These larger plastic snowflake connectors are suited for students younger and older to create creatures, letters, or numbers.

If you’re lucky, you may even stumble upon these mini puzzle blocks in the dollar spot at Target!

Older students love to build with these small magnets!

It seems simple, but students love to use special gel pens and markers to put their imagination to paper.

Students love to work in pairs or small groups to beat a logic challenge.

STEAM time in the classroom is a perfect time for students to take on new challenges in subject areas they enjoy, like the ones in this math book.

As you start to collect new STEAM items over time, you don't need to break the bank for your bins. Try these bins from the Dollar Tree to get started.

1. STEAM bins can be used by early finishers.

2. Incorporate bins into centers during math (or any subject!)

3. Schedule team building blocks during the week to uses STEAM bins.

4. Use STEAM bins in a calm down corner.

5. Pull out your bins during indoor recess.

6. Implement a Soft Start time in the morning and incorporate STEAM bins.

7. Teach math facts or colors using STEAM items.

As you begin using STEAM bins, you will be amazed with how they inspire all types of learners in your classroom!