While doors remain closed at schools and daycares across the country, learning should not come to a stop. As the weeks roll by and we become more accustomed to our new daily routines, you may find yourself struggling for new ways to keep your children engaged. As the premier Bangor child care center, our team at Watch Me Shine would like to take this moment to provide our parents with STEM ideas to encourage learning at home.
Understanding the basics of STEM
Science, technology, engineering, and math are the core areas involved in STEM learning for children of all ages and stages. The importance of STEM-related curriculums and projects are that they are based on real-world situations. Thus, encouraging children to solve problems by asking the questions through hands-on exploring the world around them.
Hands-on and minds-on learning engage children in both fun and interesting ways that hold their attention, while learning through life skills. In the educational system for all ages, STEM lays down the foundation for future academic success by teaching skills that transfer with your child throughout their educational career.
STEM learning outdoors
Research shows that having a strong foundation in early math can lead to higher achievements in both math and reading later in school. However, it’s important to keep in mind that each child is unique to STEM-based activities should be age and stage appropriate. Below is a list of ideas that are generally appropriate for the early childhood stage:
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Nature walks
Spring is the perfect time to head outdoors. Take a walk with your child while collecting various objects such as leaves, stones, sticks, and anything else that may stand out to your child. Once back home, work with your child to categorize these objects by shape, size, color, etc., you can even begin by counting how many objects were collected along the walk. You’ll be using science and math skills.
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Water play
We’ve yet to meet a child that doesn’t enjoy water activities! Water play is an excellent way to engage your child in age-appropriate science, math, and engineering activities. By providing them with several different tools, children can explore how objects work and interact with one another, count how long to fill and empty, count how many objects, and build amazing water towers! Great tools for water play include measuring cups, buckets, waterproof toys, funnels, and toys that float.
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Chalk coding
Living in a digital world, it’s imperative that your child understands technology. However, that doesn’t have to mean hours in front of screens. In fact, that’s the last thing we suggest! With a little fresh air, water squirter, and chalk, you can teach your child the basics of coding! Be sure to check out this article from Teach Your Kids Code for super easy instructions!
If you’re looking for Bangor child care, early intervention, or other therapy services, contact our team at Watch Me Shine (207) 990-0162. Our staff of highly trained professionals are here to meet emotional, and academic needs to help your child achieve their greatest potential.
