STEAM Content Creators Your Teens Should Know

Let’s face it… Our kids are online; scrolling is the new American pastime. According to a 2024 study by Worldmetrics.org the average American teenager racks up about nine hours of daily screen time, much of it spent consuming media for entertainment. That’s more than a third of their day glued to smartphones, computers, tablets, and TVs.

But not all screen time is wasted time. Teens can tap into the vast world of STEAM-based content to fuel their curiosity, spark creativity, and get inspired.

Here are nine content creators you can share with your teens to keep them engaged in STEAM learning while they scroll.

NerdForge

Martina and Hansi are a pair of YouTube-based creators working side by side to collaborate on high-tech handmade projects. The makers each bring a unique skill set to the table and will combine 3D printing, circuitry, and sculpting to bring epic sci-fi and fantasy creations to life!

Hub recommendation: “I Built a PC… but it’s a neon city”

Your teens can also keep up with NerdForge on Instagram.

Adam Savage

Ask any millennial, and they’ll tell you: Adam Savage and the MythBusters crew were the go-to science lesson whenever a substitute teacher took over in class. Now, Adam Savage continues to fuel curiosity and creativity through his YouTube channel Tested. Featuring hands-on experiments, engineering challenges, and behind-the-scenes looks at incredible builds, the channel inspires a new generation to embrace STEM, think critically, and turn their wildest ideas into reality.

Hub recommendation: “Adam Savage’s Four Year Build: Life-Size Velociraptor Costume!”

Listen to Tested, the podcast.
Teens can join the Tested Discord
Find Adam and Tested on Instagram
For all other things Tested visit the website

Dr. Shini Somara

Engineer and YouTube host Dr. Shini Somara inspires teens with her captivating content on STEM topics, blending her STEM expertise with a passion for storytelling. Dr. Somara breaks down complex concepts, showcases innovative ideas, and highlights the exciting possibilities in science and technology, encouraging teens to explore their potential and beyond.

Hub recommendation: “Improving the Jet Engines”

Scrollers can also find Dr. Shini Somara on Instagram and TikTok.

Mark Rober

Mark Rober may just be a maverick of engineering hijinx. From building glitter bombs for prank package thieves to creating record-breaking elephant toothpaste explosions. Rober’s larger-than-life style of silly engineering projects will inspire your teens to use their creative energy for STEAM experimentation.

Hub recommendation: “Backyard Squirrel Maze 2.0- The Walnut Heist”

Mark Rober’s YouTube is constantly being updated with new STEAM content
Your teens can also find Rober’s content on Instagram and TikTok

Hip Hop Science

High-energy host Hip Hop MD, Maynard Okereke, takes viewers into the great outdoors to learn about earth sciences like biology and conservation. Self-described as “Bill Nye meets Worldstar” the Hip Hop Science Show brings the natural world to viewers on Instagram, TikTok, and Threads.

Hub recommendation: “Backyard Science [Praying Mantis] – Hip Hop Science”

Looking for long-form content? You can also find Hip Hop Science on YouTube.

Ted-Ed

With over 2200 YouTube videos, TED-Ed brings the magic of TED Talks to teens, offering bite-sized lessons and animations that make complex ideas accessible and exciting.

Hub recommendation: “How do animals regrow their limbs? And why can’t humans do it?”

Visit the Ted-Ed website for a wealth of educational resources
Ted-Ed curates an Instagram account that is packed with thoughtful educational resources and inspiration
The Ted-Ed blog is a must-read for anyone interested in expanding their knowledge base

Khan Academy

Learning is brought to life with Khan Academy! Students can explore topics like algebra, biology, and coding with relatable examples and expert explanations with well-crafted educational and instructional YouTube videos.

Hub recommendation: “Atomic spectra | Physics”

Khan Academy is also a great resource for educators and offers thought-provoking content on their Instagram
Have a young learner in your life? Khan Academy also curates educational content for PreK kiddos called Khan Academy Kids

SciShow

SciShow is a dynamic YouTube channel that dives into fascinating science topics, from cutting-edge discoveries to everyday mysteries. With engaging presentations and lively visuals, it makes complex ideas accessible and exciting. Teens will love exploring science’s wonders, gaining new insights into the world, and sparking their curiosity to learn more!

Hub recommendation: “Space, Goats, and Climate Change”

For young learners check out SciShow Kids
Your kids can get more SciShow on Instagram and Tiktok
They also have a podcast, SciShow Tangents

Ten Hundred

Ten Hundred is a painter, maker utilizing second-hand objects, and all-around creative wiz. TenHun’s content can be primarily found on YouTube, doing creative challenges, leading collaborations, and working at the confluence of digital and analog art.

Hub recommendation: “I Challenge 3 Artists to a Thrift Shop Art Battle!”

Find more content from Ten Hundred on TikTok and Instagram.