Are you still trying to figure out when to try STEM? What's the right age? Is STEM learning even necessary?
Well, give it a thought.
No matter what your kid’s age is - learning always starts from day 1. That doesn't mean you should dive this early, but you must take early steps - that is when your kid starts playing.
STEM learning, an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics is a fun way to engage your kid's curiosity. STEM education equips children with critical thinking skills. They develop problem-solving abilities. In an early age itself they get an understanding of technology. Here, we explore various ways to integrate STEM learning seamlessly into everyday activities, but before that let’s explore
Why is STEM Education Important?
Modern learning demands STEM education. Let's understand it this way - a future where your kid is not a consumer of science and technology, instead they try becoming creators and problem solvers. That's what STEM learning does. It goes all beyond textbooks and classrooms and helps kids understand what the present and their future life demands.
Now coming to why parents must incorporate STEM in daily playtime?
Parents are children's first teachers. They have the power to encourage the little one. Whatever they do - cooking, watching out for the stars; kids learn from them. When incorporating STEM in a daily learning:
The critical and problem-solving skills of the kid improve
It prepares kids for opportunities ahead
It brings out the creativity of the kids, they learn to innovate.
Ways to incorporate STEM learning in Daily Playtime
Try STEM Robotics Kit
One of the most effective ways to introduce STEM learning is through STEM robotics kits. These kits allow children to build and program robots. It provides hands-on experience in engineering and technology.
They are designed to be intuitive and engaging. In fact, it makes the learning process fun rather than intimidating (which robotics usually is). Buy a kit according to your kids' age group. At Blix, you can find kits of various age groups and skill levels.
Build up Science Projects
Yet another way to incorporate STEM in playtime is by trying out different science projects. Simple activities such as building a basic circuit using an educational robotics kit. Or you can also try constructing a bridge with everyday materials or blocks. In this way, you can teach your little one fundamental engineering principles.
Encourage children to participate in home experiments. This move will spark their interest and creativity. Again at Blix, you can find resources and kits that will make playtime educational and enjoyable.
Use Electronic Educational Toys
Educational toys should challenge the child's intellect. But it should even be enjoyable.
Look for STEM toys that combine fun and learning. Try construction sets that teach mechanical principles or electronic educational toys that introduce coding and robotics. In this way, your kid will even grasp STEM concepts quickly. Studies show that children engaged in STEM activities are more likely to pursue careers in these fields.
Some Practical Tips for Parents
Learning through STEM toys takes time. Hence parents have to get practical with what they are planning. They must:
Integrate STEM into Daily Routines: Try using everyday moments to introduce STEM concepts. While cooking, teach measurements and chemical reactions. While gardening can explain biology and ecology.
Create a STEM-Friendly Environment: Have a dedicated space for STEM activities at home. The area should be stocked with supplies like building blocks, electronics kits, and science experiment kits.
Encourage Curiosity: Answer your child's questions. Get enthusiastic. Guide them towards finding answers. Make them read the instructions, infact, try building a habit of inquiry and exploration.
Incorporate Play: Use toys and games that promote STEM learning. For example, you can use building sets and robot learning toys available on the Blix website. These toys can make complex concepts more understandable through play.
Regardless of what economic background you come from, know that there are a lot of affordable STEM tools available. STEM learning is not expensive at all. In fact, with the right tools and a playful approach, these learnings stay for a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Now is the time for you to work on your little one's intellectual growth - take the right action, and make them learn the STEM way!