Why STEM Challenges Work Across Generations

One of the most delightful things about STEM is how it invites curiosity — no matter your age. For us grandparents, it’s an opportunity to see the world through fresh eyes again. STEM challenges aren’t just about science and math; they’re about discovery, problem-solving, and having a little fun while we’re at it. And there’s something uniquely special about tackling a build with your grandchild, each bringing different skills to the table.

These activities naturally level the playing field. Kids bring imagination and energy, while we often bring patience and experience. STEM challenges, especially with LEGO, allow us to meet in the middle. They nurture collaboration, ignite storytelling, and create joyful shared memories that stretch far beyond the project itself.

Criteria for Choosing the Best LEGO Builds

Not all LEGO sets are created equal — especially when your goal is intergenerational play. The best builds for grandparents and grandkids are those that are easy to follow, visually engaging, and age-flexible. I look for sets that offer clear instructions, lots of color, and a mix of simple and creative elements. Bonus points if the build sparks a story or imaginative play afterward.

It’s also important to pick builds that don’t require hours of sitting or tiny, hard-to-handle pieces. Larger bricks or kits with modular sections can make the process more comfortable and engaging. And of course, anything that ties into a shared interest — animals, vehicles, or space, for instance — will always be a hit across generations.

Top 5 Intergenerational STEM Builds

Here are five of our favorite LEGO STEM projects that have truly brought my family together:

1. LEGO Education SPIKE Essential: A perfect starting point for storytelling and coding. My granddaughter loved bringing characters to life while I helped troubleshoot the gears!
2. Simple Machines Kit: This classic introduces pulleys, levers, and gears — all while building functioning contraptions like a windmill or see-saw. Great for pairing learning with fun.
3. LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox: Ideal for kids who love robotics. You’ll build a friendly robot together and then code it to perform tasks. We laughed for days watching ours dance!
4. Space Shuttle Adventure: Grandkids fascinated by space? This build combines storytelling with engineering. My grandson led the countdown while I constructed the fuel tank.
5. LEGO Architecture Skyline Series: Surprisingly accessible! Choose a city meaningful to your family, then build its landmarks together while sharing stories or travel dreams.

Each one offers its own rhythm — some fast and silly, others thoughtful and detailed. The joy is in the doing, not the perfection.

How to Encourage Creative Problem Solving

One of the best things about STEM activities is how they inspire resourcefulness. Whenever we hit a tricky step or something falls apart, I remind my grandkids: every engineer has moments like this! I try not to jump in too quickly — instead, I ask questions like “What could we try next?” or “What do you think went wrong?”

Encouraging a growth mindset builds confidence. When we celebrate the process rather than the outcome, it shifts the focus from “getting it right” to “enjoying the journey.” Even better, it gives us both permission to mess up — and then laugh and learn from it. That’s the real magic of STEM at home.

Tips for Adapting Builds for Age Levels

If your grandchild is on the younger side, look for LEGO kits labeled 5+ or ones from the DUPLO line. For these, I often pre-sort pieces by color or type to make things easier. Older kids might crave more challenge — that’s where robotics kits or themed sets really shine. Let them take the lead where possible and chime in when they need a second pair of hands.

Adjusting for physical comfort matters too. I keep a tray nearby so we don’t have to hunch over the floor, and I use a magnifying lamp if lighting is dim. Small tweaks like these make the experience more accessible and enjoyable for both of us.

Above all, remember that your presence — your time and attention — is the best part of the build. STEM projects may be the starting point, but the real outcome is time well spent together.