Why Should Kids Learn STEM?

STEM learning, which includes science, technology, engineering, and math, often uses real-world scenarios to teach children how to solve problems. Current research shows that introducing children to STEM learning early is beneficial for their education and understanding of the world in the future. Keep reading to learn about three articles I found on why children should learn STEM along with 3 activities to get your children started!

An article from Little Passports says that not only does STEM teach children practical applications, but it can be fun! STEM shows children how to think outside the box when approaching problems or viewing the environment. Even actions like tinkering with a broken toy or buildings things with legos can help children develop critical thinking skills. Encourage your child to follow their interest, whether its animals, the environment, space, building, or anything else! Being curious is part of the scientific process!

In an article, “Why is STEM Education so Important?,” it’s stated that STEM occupations are growing at 17%. Careers in science, technology, engineering, and math are built off of critical thinking, science literacy, and innovation. STEM activities can be fun for children, as they are usually hands-on and involve world-wide issues. This can expand a child’s perception of everything around them, including problems in their everyday life that may have seemed complicated to them before.

One important aspect of STEM learning is mentioned in an article titled “Why Kids Should Get into STEM Subjects Early.” STEM learning gives children a chance to learn on their own terms, and it can be done with the whole family. It is likely that children will encounter technology in their classroom and jobs in the future, so knowing how to use it effectively will allow them to be one step ahead.

3 STEM activities:

• STEM Earth Day Celebration - enjoy activities like plastic bag weaving, farm to table planting, dirt pudding, and more!

• The Science of You exhibit - children can understand how their bodies work, and features the nCino Virtual Reality Experience

• Curiosity Corner STEM Explorations - fun, hands-on activities to teach children about STEM

STEM learning is important for children because it changes their perspective of the world around them and gives them creative, innovative ways to solve problems. STEM is used in many aspects of a child’s life and there are plenty of activities to get them excited about learning! Try STEM activities as a family so everyone can learn something new!

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Lyndsey Watkins is a senior at UNCW. She is majoring in English with a concentration in professional writing and a minor in journalism. lyndseymwatkins@gmail.com