Student Video: My New Remote
When a boy presses the buttons on his new remote, chaos erupts! This hilarious poetry video by Valerie Torres, 2nd Place Winner in our 2025 STEAM Poetry Video Contest, is based on the poem, “My New Remote,” by Children’s Poet Laureate Kenn Nesbitt. Share the video with your students to spark classroom discussions about technology— and how it shapes our world!
 | CATEGORY:technology | GRADE LEVEL:primary |
DOWNLOADS:
ACTIVITIES:
Remote Control “Simon Says” Game
Pretend that you have a large remote control (or make one!) and that you are pressing the different buttons to make the kids move in various ways. Play: move normally. Fast forward: move quickly. Rewind: move backwards. Pause: freeze! Slow motion: move slowly. Let children take turns using the pretend remote. https://appetitetoplay.com/physical-activity/movement-locomotion/remote-control
What’s Inside a TV Remote?
Have students take apart gadgets like a remote control, headphones, or an alarm clock to explore parts such as buttons, circuit boards, and battery terminals. This hands-on activity builds curiosity and helps them understand how everyday electronics work. https://learning.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/resources/wreck-your-tech/
Remote Control Obstacle Course
To help younger kids understand how remote signals control movement, set up an obstacle course. Let your child navigate the car using the remote control. Try different surfaces: carpet, tile, sand, or pebbles, and observe how the car responds.
How Far? How Fast? Math Activity
Use a remote-control car to engage older students in a math and science activity by calculating the car’s speed in miles per hour. Measure a straight 25-foot distance on a flat surface with a tape measure. Mark the start and finish lines. Record time and calculate speed with the math formula provided. Repeat and compare results. https://artscrackers.com/2017/11/28/remote-control-vehicle-activities/
CRAFT:
Doodle Lou's Summer Fun Remote
With Doodle Lou's "Summer Fun Remote Craft" kids create their very own DIY remote control—designed to spark play, create, imagine, and chill. Each “button” offers a new boredom buster. It’s hands-on, screen-free fun that puts kids in charge of their own creative summer vibes. Click CRAFT tab to download free!
