40 Invention Ideas for Kids, With Free Design Worksheet

The world we inhabit is a tapestry woven with the threads of imagination and innovation. From the humble light bulb to the marvel of airplanes, and from the delightful peanut butter to everyday shampoo, inventors have harnessed creativity to enhance our lives. To spark this inventive spirit in children, it’s essential to introduce them to the engineering design process. Encourage kids to explore these inventive ideas or to dream up their own!

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40+ Smart Invention Ideas and Activities To Inspire Innovative Kids printable download — We Are Teachers

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Design an Invention Worksheet

Guide children through the invention process as they conceptualize and develop their ideas!

Inspiring Inventions by Kids

It’s common for kids to think they are too young to invent something significant. However, history shows that age is just a number when it comes to creativity. Here are real-life stories of young inventors who created inventions that made a difference. For each story, we’ve included a challenge for kids inspired by the original invention.

Plus, discover more about 46 famous inventors and the inventions that shaped our world!

Popsicles

Did you know that one of the world’s favorite frozen treats was invented by an 11-year-old? Read Frank Epperson’s story on NPR.

Idea for an Invention: Create a new and nutritious portable food that kids can enjoy on the go.

Braille

Braille, the system of raised dots that enables the visually impaired to read, was invented by a teenager! Learn about Louis Braille’s story on Forbes.

Idea for an Invention: Design a new method to help individuals with physical challenges communicate more effectively.

Pediatric IV Backpack

Kylie Simonds, during her cancer treatment, invented an IV backpack to ease the burden for other children facing similar challenges. Read Kylie’s inspiring story on ABC News.

Idea for an Invention: Create a product that simplifies life for kids undergoing medical treatments.

Alzheimer Alert System

At the age of 15, Kenneth Shinozuka invented a pressure-activated sock to keep his grandfather safe from wandering off. Find out more about Kenneth’s story on WebMD.

Idea for an Invention: Create new solutions to keep individuals safe in potentially dangerous situations.

Hot Seat

After hearing stories about children left in hot cars, 14-year-old Alissa Chavez created the Hot Seat to alert parents if they forget their child in a car seat. Learn more about Alissa and her invention at Raising Smart Girls.

Idea for an Invention: Develop a product that enhances safety for children and ease for parents.

STEM Challenge Invention Ideas for Kids

STEM challenges captivate students and provide them with opportunities to innovate. Start with these STEM challenge invention ideas, and explore our STEM topic pages for even more activities.

Egg Drop Challenge

A classic STEM challenge, the Egg Drop requires students to design a container that protects an egg from a drop. Challenge them further to create an invention that serves a real-life purpose based on their design.

Rube Goldberg Machine

Rube Goldberg machines are quirky devices that achieve simple tasks through elaborate and often humorous means. Use them to teach chain reactions, and encourage kids to think creatively about problem-solving by setting a task, like ringing a bell, and allowing them to brainstorm offbeat methods to accomplish it!

Smartphone Projector

This engaging classroom project uses a shoebox and magnifying lenses to create a projector. Once students grasp the basics, challenge them to enhance their design with features like zoom or remote control capabilities.

Fibonacci Living Space

The Fibonacci sequence is a fascinating concept found in nature, such as nautilus shells. Encourage students to design their ideal living space inspired by this natural phenomenon using simple materials like cardboard, paper, tape, and glue. Prompt them to explore what features make a room comfortable or environmentally friendly.

Indoor Composter

Composting is a sustainable practice that benefits the environment, but not everyone has outdoor space. Challenge students to design an indoor composter that any household can easily maintain.

Something That Flies

Explore the principles of flight and challenge students to create a flying object using basic classroom materials.

Water Filter

Access to clean drinking water is a global challenge. Task students with designing an affordable and effective water filter that can be easily utilized.

Oil Spill Cleanup

Oil spills pose severe environmental threats. Challenge students to devise innovative and efficient methods for cleaning up spills, aiding in the restoration of ecosystems.

Mechanical Hand

Using simple materials, kids can create a mechanical hand in this popular STEM challenge. Encourage them to think further and design a mechanical device that could assist those who have lost their limbs.

Something That Floats

Buoyancy is a fascinating concept. Challenge students to create a unique object that can float using ordinary materials.

“Build a Better …” Invention Ideas for Kids

Many inventors find inspiration in improving existing products. Encourage kids to brainstorm and come up with inventive ideas that enhance the following:

Mousetrap

Portable shelter (e.g., tent)

Squirrel-proof bird feeder

Pet care product (e.g., bed, leash, food/water dish)

Pet toy

Automatic toothpaste dispenser

Alarm clock

Backpack

Flashlight

Beverage container

Garden tool

Board game

Educational toy

School desk and/or chair

Smartphone app for kids

Toy box/storage

Transportation mode for kids

Multi-purpose hat

Shopping cart

Slip-proof socks

Silent shoes

Cereal-pouring machine

Glove-drying machine

Clothing or shoe organizer

Invention Contests for Kids

Have a brilliant invention idea? Join these contests for a chance to bring kids’ innovations to life and win exciting prizes!

Thomas Edison Pitch Contest

This contest invites students in grades 4 through 12 to create and pitch their invention ideas across various categories. Prizes include T-shirts, gift cards, and even a 3D printer for schools. Participants also receive a maker kit filled with supplies to jumpstart their projects!

Past winning ideas: Smart recycling bin, easy parking app, water-runoff turbine

Learn more: Thomas Edison Pitch Contest

Young Inventor Challenge

This challenge connects students with professionals in the toy and game industry as they develop and pitch their new inventions. Winners may have their designs manufactured and sold by sponsoring companies. It’s open to kids ages 6 to 18 and requires a pitch video and prototype.

Invention Convention

Teachers can utilize the Invention Convention curriculum to help students develop projects for local, regional, and national competitions. This contest is open to students in grades K-12, with numerous prizes available for winners.

Past winning ideas: Wrap-N-Go Pencil Holder, Smart Mailbox, Manure Mower

Learn more: Invention Convention

ExploraVision

This STEM competition encourages entrants to choose a technology to improve. Students conduct research and submit detailed projects outlining their proposed innovations. This contest accommodates various age groups, making it ideal for K-12 students.

Past winners: Artificial photosynthesis system, magnetic propulsion rocket launcher, mosquito trap

Past winning ideas: ExploraVision

Microfiber Innovation Challenge

Microplastics pose significant threats to wildlife and human health. In this challenge, participants devise methods to prevent microplastics from harming our planet.

Learn more: Microfiber Innovation Challenge

Kids Invent Stuff

The creators of this popular YouTube channel love bringing kid inventors’ ideas to life! They accept submissions via their website and feature the most innovative ideas in their videos.

Past winning ideas: Periscope hat, drill-powered shoes, finger forks

Learn more: Kids Invent Stuff

Grab Your Free Design an Invention Worksheet!

If you enjoyed these invention ideas, download our free worksheet to use at home or in the classroom. This worksheet guides students through the process of developing their invention concept.