5 STEM Experiements to Take on the Road

Summer is here! It is a good time to have fun, but that doesn’t mean taking a break from satisfying our curious minds. We know busy families are often on vacation this time of year, so here are 5 STEM experiments you can take on the road.

  1. Make a balloon powered car!

This experiment explores the scientific concept that for every action, there will be an equal and opposite reaction (Newton’s third law of motion). The air expelled from the balloon creates the force to propel the car forward. Also, the friction and resistance of the car to the surface slows the car to an eventual stop.

What you will need:

  1. Toy Car
  2. Balloon
  3. Tape
  4. Straw(s) – ideally, a variety of several different straws

Instructions:

  1. Tape the opening of the balloon around one side of the straw, ensuring there are no air leaks
  2. Tape the straw to the top of the car
  3. Inflate the balloon through the straw.
  4. While covering the opening of the straw with your finger or pinching the end of the straw closed, place the car on the floor.
  5. Let go of the end of the straw and see your car go!

What did you observe happening? Which direction did the ballon propel your car? Does changing the surface (such as linoleum or carpet) affect how far your car drives? If you were to use a different straw, how might that affect how your car drives? What happens when you use a jumbo straw versus a skinny straw? Do you have a bendable straw? Try putting a bend in it and see what happens. Have a race with your friends!

2. Things that float/sink

This experiment explores the scientific principles of density and buoyancy. Buoyancy is the upward force exerted by fluid (in this case water) that opposes the weight of an object. Density describes how much matter is in a certain amount of space (volume), or how much space a certain amount of matter takes up. An object with low density is going to weigh less than an object of the exact same size with high density.

What you will need:

  1. Bowl/ tub of water
  2. Any collection of objects that will fit within the container of water. Let your imagination run wild!
    • Coins
    • Chinelle stems
    • Pieces of fabric
    • Buttons
    • Small plastic or steel bowl
    • Cutlery – plastic and metal
    • Toy boats
    • Pieces of wood
    • Wine corks
    • Ice
    • Rocks
    • Sticks
    • Leaves
    • Feathers
    • Oil

Instructions:

  1. Take each object and place them in the water
  2. Observe how different objects behave in the water

What are your observations about what happened? What is the difference between the objects that float and the objects that sank? If a fork that is made of steel sinks, how can a bowl (or ship) that is made of steel float? Why does ice float in water? Why do some objects float initially and then later sink (such as the fabric or some types of wood)?

3. Take a road trip movement break and observe gravity!

This one is easy, gives the littles a chance to get some wiggles out, and explores the scientific principle of gravity! Gravity is the invisible force that pulls object towards earth.

Find some open space! Or at least enough space to move around without disturbing others. Jump up and observe what happens. Did you fall back down to Earth? What would happen if you jumped up and there was no gravity pulling you back to Earth?

4. Try skipping rocks!

This experiment is a timeless classic! It explores STEM concepts in physics. There are many forces at play when skipping rocks, but the most fundamental ones are gravity and lift. Gravity pulls the rock towards the water and lift is what pushes the rock up from the water. If the lift from the water is stronger than the gravity pulling the rock down, the rock skips!

You will need to find the right spot. This will include a smooth body of water, such as a calm section of a stream or a lake. You will also need a place where there are a lot of small, smooth stones.

You will also need to find the right rock. Look for a small, roundish or oval, flat rock of uniform thickness that fits well in your hand.

Now, let’s try to skip that rock across the water. Remember, this takes practice! Set the rock in the crook of your pointer finger and thumb. Curl your other fingers underneath your stone. Next, stand up straight with your feet parallel to the water, facing the length of the shoreline. Throw the stone at a side angle, as parallel to the water as possible.

Keep trying until you get it right. If you are struggling, try to get a good spin! The gyroscopic force prevents the stone from toppling over and falling into the water. (Have you ever played with a spinning top?)

Were you able to make it work? What did you discover makes a good skipping rock? Why do you think some rocks are better for skipping than others? Where do you find the best skipping rocks? Are they usually near water? Why or why not?

You don’t have to leave the littlest kids out! If you have kids that are too small to skip rocks, have them Kerplunk! the rocks into the water. Why do you think those rocks sank immediately versus the rocks that skidded across the water?

5. Make a nature walk bracelet

Are you going to be exploring in nature this summer? Study the ecology around you and make a bracelet while on a nature walk! Using duct tape, make a cuff with the sticky side out. As you walk or hike, add things that you find, such as plant samples, flowers, and other nature items to your sticky bracelet. (However, avoid poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac. They often have leaves of three; though not aways!)

Can you find an item from each color of the rainbow? Are some colors easier to find than others? Don’t forget! When you get home, look up the items that you found on your adventure.

Did you find these experiments fun?

Contact your local High Touch High Tech franchise and we can bring even more exciting hands-on STEM activities directly to you!

Why Kids LOVE our Summer Camps (According to them)

During summers at High Touch High Tech We travel to different schools for fun science exploration with kids, who are excited for the break from writing and rules. Though writing and rules are a major part of science, summer camp is all about experience and exploration. Our goals is to ignite a curiosity of science that sticks with them for life.

We don’t have to ask how the Science Summer camps are going because our campers enthusiastically let us know!

This is a popular response I get from children. Invoking this response is what it’s all about! I like to imagine that years from now, I will be reading about this child as they are interviewed in a science article about their latest invention. Maybe they even go into detail about what inspired them, and maybe, it was Science Summer Camp!

I suspect she returned home to her Mom and siblings and retold the story of it all. I could understand why! The day was amazing for me as well. In fact, I look forward to doing experiments with them that I know will encourage squeals of excitement from them. The children love an especially messy experiment. Sometimes Science is messy!

Art is a major element to Science and this experiment is a great example of that. EXPLODING COLORS is a fan favorite and never fails to amaze! Not only do they learn but it’s imaginative and fascinating.

I don’t think he will ever forget how mesmerized he was once he figured out the technique of creating the perfect tornado inside our Tornado Tubes. Tornado Tubes are my favorite experiment to bring for them to try at the end of the day. Everyone has FUN with them! Summer Camps have ages ranging from 6 to 11. We find a way to make it all interesting and memorable for everyone. I take time to visit with each group to answer questions and hear their thoughts an ideas.

There couldn’t be a better testimonial as they were exploring chemical reactions. We aim to INSPIRE, ENGAGE, and EXPLORE every time we visit a facility!

If you aren’t familiar with what we do at High Touch High Tech please visit our website. We love Summer Camps, but we also have curriculum based programs, which we provide for grade K-5 in the form of in-school Science field trips!

Introducing Biodiversity Britta!

As the newest member of the High Tech High Touch Team here in Asheville, NC I followed the tradition of choosing a science name that honors a part of our individual interests in science. So, why did I choose the name, “Biodiversity Britta?”

I have lived in this part of Western North Carolina since 2004 when I became a student at the University of North Carolina at Asheville, where I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science with a minor in Economics. During my lifetime, I have witnessed a lot of changes in the natural world around me, and not all good. As an advocate for the health of our planet, I choose to honor biodiversity because of its importance for life on Earth.

The term “biodiversity” is short for biological diversity, and it refers to every single life on our planet. This includes each animal, plant, fungi, Protista (such as algae), and microorganisms (bacteria and archaea). Biodiversity not only refers to each organism; it also refers to the genetic variation within them. It is a fundamental and integral concept in the study of our natural world.

Earth is a unique place in our universe. It formed in the early days of our solar system, and is thought to be approximately 4.54 billion years old. The earliest known life forms on Earth existed at least 3.7 billion years ago, as evidenced by the existence of carbon molecules in rocks that are consistent with life. Since that time, life on this planet has evolved from the most basic microbes to the plant dominated world that we now live in, where animals also play a significant role in our biosphere. There is an interconnected relationship between every life on this planet.

Humans are a relatively new species on Earth. The first modern humans, Homo sapiens, originated sometime between 550,000 and 750,000 years ago, and have played a significant role in the change of biodiversity. There have been many periods of rapid change in biodiversity in the history of Earth, but within the span of human existence, the most significant change has occurred within the last 100-150 years. This change is the world we know today.

Asheville, NC exists in the Southern Appalachian region of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This area has experienced its own unique changes in biodiversity. In 1995, the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA), Adelges tsugae, was discovered in North Carolina in three counties adjacent to Virginia. The HWA originated from Southern Japan, and as such, is invasive to eastern North America. They are small, aphid-like bugs that attach to the base of the pine needles and feed on the starches of the branches. It is estimated that 80% of all eastern and Carolina hemlocks in Western North Carolina are now dead, and much of the blame for that decline can be placed on the HWA.

The implications of this decline are far reaching and is something that I have intimately witnessed over the past two decades living in WNC. By the time the woolly adelgid was discovered in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park in 2002, the largest record-breaking old growth hemlocks were on their deathbeds. Hemlocks are a riparian tree, meaning they grow in the moist soils along stream banks. Hemlocks are shade-tolerant evergreens, and one of their most important ecological contributions was shading mountain streams. This contributed to the low water temperatures where native aquatic animals, such as Hellbenders and Brook Trout, thrive.

This is not the first rapid change in biodiversity that this region has experienced in recent human history. In the early twentieth century, the chestnut blight wiped out the American Chestnut tree, which had once dominated forests in the eastern United States. Chestnuts had once provided an abundant nutrient-dense food source to humans and animals alike. The loss of species is not limited to plants: we have seen Passenger pigeons, the Carolina parakeet, and bison eradicated. Countless other species are threatened or endangered. There has also been an undesirable proliferation of invasive species beyond the HWA, from feral swine to kudzu, that can be attributed to a loss of biodiversity. Experts estimate that the decline of 42% of threatened or endangered species can be attributed to exotic, invasive species.

The health of our natural world can be measured by biodiversity. Change is inevitable: some as part of the natural evolution of our species on our planet and from anthropogenic causes. Just in my lifetime, I have observed the transformation of the forests I grew up hiking through. What changes have you witnessed in your lifetime? How has your region of Earth changed?

Stay tuned for Part II where we’ll explore why biodiversity is so important for humankind

“Biodiversity” Britta Spencer

https://wordwildlife.org https://earthguide.ucsd.edu https://www.planetary.org/articles/how-old-is-the-earth https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/essential-timeline-understanding-evolution-homo-sapiens-180976807/ https://savehemlocksnc.org/hemlocks-hwa/hemlock-woolly-adelgid/ https://www.americanforests.org/article/the-last-of-the-giants/ https://tacf.org/history-american-chestnut/ https://ncwf.org/blog/extinct-wildlife-in-north-carolina/

Rover Wheels!

Scientists are curious people. They question every part of a subject so they may form a hypothesis and essentially theories and/or solutions. When designing the rovers for Mars scientists had to consider all the aspects of the launch, travel, and eventually exploration of Mars.

Mars
1. Fourth planet from the sun
2. Martian solar day is called a sol and is equal to 24.6 earth hours.
3. A year on Mars is equal to 1.88 Earth years.
4. Mars has two moons, Phobos and Deimos.
5. It is the second smallest of our solar systems planets with a diameter of 6,779 km (4,212 mi).
6. During the year, the average surface temperature swings between −78.5 °C (−109.3 °F) to 5.7 °C (42.3 °F).
7. Earth has an axial tilt at 23.5 degrees and Mars at 25 degrees.
8. Mars has a rocky, sometimes sandy surface with tall mountains.
9. Mars appears orange because the soil has a high amount of iron.

Curiosity and Perseverance

Also, when transporting something in space scientists had to think about the extreme temperatures of space and the cargo load of the items being transported. In this case it is the Mars Rover Perseverance. Perseverance was launched on July 30, 2020, at 11:50 Coordinate Universal Time. Perseverance landed on February 18, 2021, at 20:55 UTC. As of 31 March 2025, Perseverance has been active on Mars for 1462 sols!

So, one thing very specific scientists had to think about was the wheels of the rover. Curiosity and Perseverance wheels are composed of aluminum with titanium spokes making them extremely durable and light. The Perseverance wheels are a bit thicker, they are narrower, and the tread is different in hopes they will stay intact longer than Curiosities has. The robust wheels have served their purpose well but now scientists are thinking about the next exploration vehicles having more flexibility. This would allow any components onboard to endure less abrupt movement. The new wheel prototypes have a metal that can flex and return to its original shape! Not only does it flex but each time the movement causes the metal to heat up. Each time it returns to its original shape it will then cool down. This new metal is an alloy composed of nickel and titanium.

Many technological advances have been made concerning space travel that have been used here on earth and this alloy is one of them! Imagine airless tires that return to their shape each time as they traverse the rocky surface. These could be used for our vehicles here and in fact are already being tested for bicycles!

What other thoughts or question could you think of concerning space travel?

References:
https://www.nasa.gov/
https://www.cnet.com/science/new-photos-from-mars-show-nasa-rover-has-holes-in-its-wheels/

Sailing Through 25 Years: High Touch High Tech’s Partnership with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines

As High Touch High Tech proudly marks its 25th anniversary in partnership with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, we reflect on a quarter-century of  education, inspiration, and unforgettable experiences at sea. Since the inception of this groundbreaking collaboration, the intersection of science edutainment and the thrill of cruising has provided a unique and enriching journey for passengers of all ages.

High Touch High Tech’s commitment to hands-on, interactive science experiences aligns seamlessly with Royal Caribbean’s dedication to delivering unparalleled entertainment and adventure. Over the years, this partnership has evolved to become a beacon of excellence in combining education with leisure, turning each cruise into an exciting opportunity for learning, and stimulating the imagination and curiosity of Royal Caribbean’s youngest guests.

From erupting volcanoes, to chemical reactions, to staggering through the stars on the upper decks, High Touch High Tech has transformed Royal Caribbean’s youth program into a living laboratory. Families and kids have had the chance to dive into the wonders of science while cruising through some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.

As we celebrate this remarkable 25-year milestone, we commend High Touch High Tech and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines for their unwavering dedication to education and entertainment. The synergy between these two entities has not only enriched the cruise experience but has also left an indelible mark on the countless minds inspired by the wonders of science at sea.

Here’s to another 25 years of exploration, discovery, and the continued partnership between High Touch High Tech and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. May the next quarter-century bring even more innovation, education, and unforgettable moments on the high seas. Cheers to a journey that combines the best of science and adventure, setting sail towards a brighter, more informed future for all who come on board.

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The Importance of Trees!

Trees are extremely important! We here at High Touch High Tech want to highlight trees and all the things they do! They help mitigate air pollution by absorbing carbon and other pollutants. They also provide much needed habitat for wildlife.
Did you know there are Champion Trees? Champion trees are determined by factors such as height and diameter and the champion titles are awarded to many species of tree. To learn all about this you could check out the website:

The tree I am highlighting today is an Eastern Hemlock, who many of you may know is threatened by an invasive insect called the wooly adelgid. The botanical name for this tree is Tsuga canadensis. This champion is in Macon County NC and measures 175 feet high and trunk circumference at 194 inches! The crown spread is 49 feet!

Seniors Love Science!

Dinosaur Dan with seniors at Faye’s Place at Jewish Family Services

 Did you know that High Touch High Tech provides programs for seniors? Once a month, Dinosaur Dan teaches classes at Arbor Terrace and Faye’s Place at Jewish Family Services in Asheville, NC. He says that the experience is always super rewarding and inspiring for both him and the seniors. Seniors have the same level of awe about the world as anyone else as the level of inspiration and curiosity is not lost with age. It is human instinct to learn and be curious! 

Seniors exploring science at Arbor Terrace

During the latest program at Arbor Terrace, they studied genotypes and phenotypes. They drew their phenotypes, observable characteristics, and looked at genotypes. They also compared their individual fingerprints in this experiment.  

Seniors exploring science at Faye’s Place at Jewish Family Services

If you are interested in Senior Science, please contact High Touch High Tech to set up a fun experience!

The Gift Of Inspiration II-PODCAST

High Touch High Tech is all about INSPIRATION! We strive to motivate kids in the field of science! This is part two of our journey into the neuroscience and psychology of inspiration and gratitude.

https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/JjCzWK5EIwb

Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina, a place that always inspires us. Enjoy the podcast!
Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

The Gift of Inspiration

This season, we’re inspired by the view from Looking Glass Rock in Western North Carolina

At High Touch High Tech, we specialize in inspiring the scientists of tomorrow. We know that, behind so many of the most world-changing scientific discoveries, you’ll find an inspired scientist! But what IS inspiration, exactly? Is it an emotion? A psychological process? An electrical signal in the brain? Turns out, it’s all of those and more. Join us for part one of our podcast on the science of inspiration at the link below!
https://anchor.fm/sciencemadefun/episodes/Inspiration-and-Gratitude-part-1-e1sfhub