A wind activity for kids is easy to set up with a small table fan. Have fun observing the strength of the wind as you and the kids conduct this simple STEM experiment together. 

This post contains affiliate links. See our full disclosure.

We love science activities that are simple to set up, using simple household materials. If the setup is easy, we're more likely to provide the activity for our early learners.

In this activity, wind is easily created with a small fan and common items such as paper, crayons, feathers and clothespins. Exploring natural elements is important for kids, to gain knowledge and understanding about the environment.

I use recycled materials and everyday items for several experiments.

• Cardboard is the main ingredient in this marble run that will be a hit with kids.
• Clothespins and craft sticks can be transformed into a simple catapult.

Kids can help set up this wind experiment: cutting out paper rectangles; attaching weights. After setting up the experiment, extend the fun and learning by predicting outcomes.

Can you guess which items will be swept away by the wind?

Set up this indoor experiment to spark curiosity about the properties of wind.

Related: Science Activities Digital Resource

Wind experiment with a table fan

First, a word or two about wind.

We experience the effects of air movement with all our senses:

• the touch warm breeze on our cheeks
• the smell bread in the air from a bakery around the corner
• the sound of an ocean wave through an open window
• the sight of branches bending on a tree
• the taste smoke around a campfire

We also experience the stillness when there is little air movement.

Kids experience various degrees of wind in everyday play. 

• flying a kite
• watching leaves swirl around the yard
• blowing soap bubbles into the air

They also naturally observe the role of air movement in these activities.

• A kite is heavier than a soap bubble or a leaf.
• Leaves are more difficult to rake into a pile on a windy day.

Wind is a wonderful, and natural, phenomenon to explore.

This simple experiment is a fun way to engage kids in experimenting and observing wind.

Supplies for a wind experiment

• construction paper rectangles measuring 3 x 12 inches (7 x 30 cm)

• tape

• scissors
• small table fan

Instructions for a wind experiment

1. Tape one end of each paper rectangle to the top of a low table so the paper hangs down loosely.

2. Attach various objects to the ends of the paper strips with tape. These serve as weights (variables). 

Objects might include a feather, crayon, clothespin, and cotton swab.

Leave one paper strip empty.

3. Position a small desk fan in front of the paper strips. Turn the fan on, with a setting that sends a gentle breeze over the paper.

Increase or decrease the setting as preferred.

4. Observe the movement of the paper.

Learning through play

• Predict which of the items the wind will easily move.

• Observe which paper strips are too heavy for the wind to move.

• Sort items according to weight.

• Adjust the speed of the fan to serve as an additional variable.

Another way to experiment with wind.

Place a few items on the floor or on a table top to see if the 'wind' can move them from one point to another.

With lots of opportunity for trial and error, we can encourage kids to handle materials in their own ways, to experiment, to improvise, to make observations.

Make science fun and accessible with simple experiments for you and the kids to enjoy together. Everyday, accessible materials provide hands-on activities at little cost.

STEAM KIDS

(affiliate link)

More STEAM from kid-friendly bloggers

The Power of Wind: A Lesson in Alternative Energy from Creative Family Fun

Wind Powered Challenge: LEGO Rescue Mission from Steam Powered Family

Exciting experiments on our STEM to STEAM Pinterest board!