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Encouraging Your Child’s Interest in STEAM at Every Age
October 4, 2023
Does your child love science? Are they a natural at math? Or maybe they light up around tech, like computers or cars. Maybe their artwork is plastered all over the fridge like a homespun Monet. If any of this rings true, S.T.E.A.M. may be an avenue for your child to explore for their future! You’ve likely heard the acronym before – “S.T.E.A.M.” stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, it’s a holistic approach to learning that not only equips children with essential academic knowledge but also fosters creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
As kids settle into the school year, they’re likely discovering new subjects that light them up, including S.T.E.A.M.! This blog post will feature ideas for encouraging interest in science, tech, engineering, the arts, and math at a variety of ages and how to foster that curiosity.
S: Science
Young children are naturally curious about the world around them, which makes them natural scientists! Encouraging an interest in science begins with fostering curiosity through simple, hands-on experiments and observation. One of the easiest ways to foster that curiosity is to take them on nature walks to discover the world around them. As children grow, encourage questions and engage in discussions about scientific concepts they encounter in their daily lives – this may sound complicated, but it can be as simple as observing the weather, baking together and watching what happens when different ingredients are added, or talking about different animals or plants that interest them.
For older kids and teenagers, support their interests by ensuring they have access to books, documentaries, and online resources that align with their scientific passions (all are easily accessible through your local library and your librarian can even help find resources that fit their interests). Encourage older kids to participate in science fairs or science clubs, allowing them to explore their interests in a more structured way. And remember, you’re a role model for your kids, an interest in science isn’t required, but you can still create an environment where curiosity and discovery are celebrated!
T: Technology
We know, you’d probably say your kids know more about tech than you do, but empowering kids of all ages to explore technology is a vital aspect of their education in the digital age. For young children, parents can introduce them to age-appropriate educational apps and games that promote problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Encourage them to experiment with devices under supervision, fostering a sense of curiosity. As children grow older, involve them in family technology decisions, such as choosing new gadgets or setting up parental controls, which not only educates them but also builds responsibility. Encourage older kids and teenagers to pursue coding or robotics classes if they show interest. Above all, maintain open communication about online safety and responsible technology use, establishing healthy boundaries while nurturing their passion for all things tech. By balancing exploration with guidance, parents can help their children become confident and informed digital citizens while maintaining safety in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
E: Engineering
Does your kiddo love blocks and puzzles? Are they fanatic about construction? Engineering could be for them! You can encourage engineering play by providing lots of puzzles, building blocks, and building kits that not only stimulate their imaginations but help develop spatial awareness, too. DIY projects, like the ones we often share on our blog, are also a great way to have some hands-on fun. As children grow, expose them to more advanced engineering concepts through science museums, workshops, and educational shows. If you’re able, support their interests by enrolling them in classes or clubs that focus on robotics, coding, or other engineering fields.
A: Arts
The arts may seem straightforward – drawing, painting, sculpture – but an interest in the arts can lead to many different directions for a creative child, and encouraging their interests may even inspire an interest for parents! For young children, simply providing access to various art supplies like crayons, paints, and clay can be a great start. Engage in creative activities together, celebrating their artistic expression and encouraging them to experiment freely. As kids grow, introduce them to different forms of art, whether through visits to museums (many museums in Maine offer free admission on specific days), attending live performances like community theater, or exploring different types of music and dance.
M: Math
Math plays a vital role in your child’s cognitive development and problem-solving skills. Parents of young children can make math fun through games, puzzles, and everyday activities like counting objects or measuring ingredients while baking. Engage in conversations that involve numbers and patterns, sparking their curiosity. As children progress through school, offer support with their math homework, showing enthusiasm and, above all, patience. Math may come easily for some children while others may struggle – with every child it’s important to meet them where they are and work through their math homework with patience.
Encourage exploration of math concepts through educational apps, books, or math-related outings, such as visits to science centers or planetariums. For older kids and teenagers, emphasize the practical applications of math in various careers and real-life situations, helping them see its relevance and importance. If your child excels at math or expresses an interest in it, encourage participation in math competitions or clubs, and be open to discussing math-related challenges they encounter. By nurturing a positive attitude toward math and showing that it can be both enjoyable and useful, parents can inspire their children to embrace math with confidence and curiosity.
As your children grow, support their academic pursuits by showing genuine interest in their schoolwork, helping with homework, and attending parent-teacher meetings. Encourage older kids and teenagers to set goals, explore extracurricular activities, and consider their future aspirations. Middle school is often a time when children begin to plant the seeds of their future education after high school. Always be a source of encouragement, emphasizing the value of education in shaping their future. Whether through visits to museums, discussions about current events, or access to online courses, parents play a crucial role in instilling a lifelong love for learning that extends far beyond the classroom.