STEAM Learning Resources

A photo collage with images including a t-rex skull, teen photographer, golden tamir illustration, and astronaut suit.

All learners need the tools to trust in the scientific process and be good consumers of scientific knowledge to improve the quality of their lives—from landing a person on the Moon to developing vaccines to addressing the impacts of a changing climate. At the Smithsonian, we are bringing art and science together with engineering, math, and technology through our STEAM education programs, resources, and compelling storytelling. No matter who you are or where you live, these Smithsonian exhibits, classroom resources, and online tools offer learners of all generations fun and informative ways to experience the natural world through the integration of art and science.

STEAM with Family and Friends

Microscopic view of a gossamer worm; its blue with many legs and a long tail.

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Ocean Motion

Marine biologist Dr. Karen Osborn and teaching artists from Local Motion Project dive into the life of a deep sea Gossamer worm using movement and dance-making.

A children's book illustration of a treehouse in the shape of a rocket.

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Flights of Fancy

Stories for young children and their families inspired by air and space objects and historic photos. Educators tell stories, do sketches, and demonstrate crafts that you can enjoy together at home.

A graphic with the word "I Wonder" and a museum educator deep in thought.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

I Wonder Video Series

Bring your curiosity along on an adventure with a National Zoo education specialist as they answer questions around the Zoo. These short videos are for learners of all ages but optimized for students in grades K-5.

STEAM in School

A group of educators participate in a science experiment

Smithsonian Science Education Center

Smithsonian Science for the Classroom K-5 Curriculum

This STEAM curriculum, paired with the Smithsonian Science Stories literacy series, immerses students in hands-on, phenomenon- and problem-driven learning, enhancing their understanding of science, math, and reading through classroom exploration of the natural world.

A pink puppet waves in front of the Smithsonian Castle.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

Get a Head Start with the Smithsonian

Get a Head Start with the Smithsonian links classrooms to Smithsonian museums, covering science, art, engineering, history, and civics. Live virtual Zoo field trips are paired with classroom activities that support Pre-K themes, and engaging professional development.

Two girls look at data on a digital device in the field.

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Natural History Explorations

Series of webinars, videos, activities, and projects to explore the deep sea, dinosaurs, and natural history (with Spanish) through STEAM integration.

STEAM Digital Resources

A graphic with the text "Career Connections" and graphical elephants, hearts, and checklists.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

Zoo Career Connections Video Series

Meet staff with "unZOOsual" careers in science, technology, engineering and math.

Artist Dwight Hwang shows off an artwork of a fish.

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Gyotaku Fish Printing with Dwight Hwang

Artist Dwight Hwang and research zoologist Kate Bemis from the National Museum of Natural History discuss the Japanese art of Gyotaku fish printing and demonstrate how to make a fish print.

A group of illustrated animals, including a panda, flamingo, and zebra.

Smithsonian Science Education Center

Smithsonian STEAM Game Center

Try these free Smithsonian STEAM games and simulations online or for download. Designed with clear learning objectives, young learners can use them at home or at school.

Visit STEAM at the Smithsonian

A photograph of the exhibition, featuring an airplane in flight and a illuminated planet.

Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum

One World Connected

One World Connected explores how flight and space exploration revolutionized connections across distances and reshaped our view of Earth as humanity’s home. Showcasing satellites and other technologies, the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on global interconnection and the future impact of technological advances.

A photograph of metal that has been pounded into an x-shaped design.

National Museum of Asian Art

Striking Objects: Contemporary Japanese Metalwork

Traditional Japanese metalworking developed to create functional items like tea containers, gongs, bells, swords, and armor. Advancements in alloys, patination, and foreign decorative techniques, such as chasing and inlay, enhanced the artistry of hammered metalwork.

A graphic illustration of the Carnegie Mansion.

Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum

Explore the Carnegie Mansion

Step back in time and uncover the details of the former home of Andrew Carnegie and his family. Hunt for shapes and patterns and learn about their family traditions.

Photograph of a young child looking at a starry night. Text: "Smithsonian Stars"

Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory

Smithsonian Scientists Taking Astronomy to Rural Schools (Smithsonian STARS)

Smithsonian STARS will provide schools with telescopes, solar lenses, teacher training, and astronomy lessons, to inspire curiosity and strengthen STEM education for rural students.

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STEAM with Family and Friends

Ocean Motion

Flights of Fancy

I Wonder Video Series

STEAM in School

Smithsonian Science for the Classroom K-5 Curriculum

Get a Head Start with the Smithsonian

Natural History Explorations

STEAM Digital Resources

Zoo Career Connections Video Series

Gyotaku Fish Printing with Dwight Hwang

Smithsonian STEAM Game Center

Visit STEAM at the Smithsonian

One World Connected

Striking Objects: Contemporary Japanese Metalwork

Explore the Carnegie Mansion

Smithsonian Scientists Taking Astronomy to Rural Schools (Smithsonian STARS)

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