S.T.E.A.M.

STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) is the acronym used in schools today where the integration of subjects are used to bring real life experiences and problems to students to help prepare them for our ever changing world. But upon closer look, STEAM has always been a part of a child’s early life experiences and at some schools, a part of their curriculum. Through the years it has been called hands-on or experiential learning. Whatever the name, it is a method for learning that works for many people. At Riverday School we are always looking for solutions to problems. We support and use this hands-on approach to learning as we integrate subjects to “ignite their passion for learning.”

Tips to Help Your Child Be a STEM Thinker

1. Encourage curiosity and questioning. Rather than giving an answer or a solution to a problem, encourage your child to research information and/or to come up with several possible solutions for a problem.

2. View science and technology TV and videos with your child. Talk together about the program you viewed afterward.

3. Make your home a STEM-friendly place. Be enthusiastic about ideas that your child wants to test (within reason). Set up a place for experimenting and building prototypes. Provide materials for experiments. These don’t have to be expensive. Materials might include things like paper cups, craft sticks, glue, etc.

4. Search out STEM-related recreational activities such as a trip to a local science museum or a visit to an Exploreum. Visit robotics competitions or Maker Faires and encourage your child to ask questions and/or participate.

5. Direct your child to these websites for information and STEM fun:

Design Squad – This PBS site features creative activities, engaging video, interactive games, and exciting contests.

Discover Engineering – At this site children can view videos, play interactive games, and design “Cool Stuff.”

National Geographic Education – This website features educational activities and videos, including some STEM activities.

6. Display curiosity about things you see and show your own interest in learning. This may be the most important tip of all. Your enthusiasm will be the greatest motivator for your child’s interest in STEM.

  Anne Jolly – STEM Imagineering