Must Have STEM School Supply List
The best resources to add to your STEM school supply list.
Perfect for:
- Teachers wanting to implement STEM in their classroom
- Materials to add to school redesign of their STEM lab
- STEM classrooms that need a supply refresh
This list of 20 resources are what I recommend for elementary students. There is a mixture of consumable and non-consumable items to fit your needs.
STEM School Supply List: Consumable Materials
These are my Amazon affiliate links. When you purchase through my link, it's no added cost to you and I get a little kickback in return. Win-win!
Case of Play Doh: Use by itself or integrate with other materials. Great addition to Stop Motion animation (which you can read more in my blog post here)
Assorted Chenille stems: Replace once they are too twisted and bent
Masking Tape: Set clear expectations of how much tape can be used during projects or this will run out within a week
Velcro Dots: Perfect for labeling materials and also creating reusable STEM activities
Marbles: Technically, these are reusable. However, I seem to replace these each year as they roll into unseen corners in the classroom.
Felt Squares: These are a great size for little hands and this particular brand is a harder felt which is great for multiple designs.
Neon straws: Any straw works to build with, but neon is way more fun and colorful.
When collecting other consumables for your classroom, donations are a great way to get started. Here is an editable makerspace supply letter that can be sent home printed or digitally to families in the community.
STEM School Supply List: Reusable Materials
These are my Amazon affiliate links. When you purchase through my link, it's no added cost to you and I get a little kickback in return. Win-win!
Brain Blox Wooden Planks: A cheaper version of Keva planks and work great for any STEM challenge. Comes with an idea guide that students can refer to during free choice.
Colored Domino Pieces: They don't have dots on them, but this package comes with A LOT! A colorful building material students love.
Colorful Dice: Great for math games & coding challenges
Stackable Storage: organize and sort materials in easy to carry and clear containers
LEGO-like Mini Figs: Add an element of storytelling by adding characters to STEM designs
LEGO-like build plates: The original version can get pricey. These are compatible with real LEGO and helps make some structures more sturdy. They also work great in stop motion animation and green screen
Mixed bucket of LEGO: Of course, asking for donations might get you some as well. This is a great starter kit when on a budget. Add a bucket or two each year to add to the mix.
iPad Tripod: Improve student video quality with a steady camera. This tripod also has adjustable heights and easy to store when not in use.
Bee-Bot Robots: Great for beginning coders and, very durable and rechargeable.
Sphero Mini Robots: Great for more advanced coding and a nice addition when on a budget. You can read more about how I like this robot and others in this blog post.
LEGO WeDo 2.0: A great coding & building addition that is a must have. Multiple lesson ideas are included on the app.
Felt plastic needles: Great and safe for little hands
Other blog posts you might enjoy:
- 10+ Creative STEM Classroom Decorations by Naomi Meredith
- Back to School STEM Activities Shopping Guide by Naomi Meredith
- How to Teach STEM During Back to School by Naomi Meredith
- Ep. 5 You're Finally a STEM Teacher! Now What!? by Innovative Teacher Podcast
Need more help with your list? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!
Want more resources to support Technology & STEM all year long? Grab this FREE downloadable guide that I’ve put together for you!