Exploring STEM Subjects with Your Kids

STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. They are subjects important for any child’s learning experience and they help develop crucial life skills, from problem-solving to teamwork. Many industries require educated individuals with a background in one or more of these subjects, so they are not something that should be overlooked.

Childhood is the perfect time to develop an interest in STEM subjects, by exploring them both at school and within the family home. Of course, teachers usually integrate STEM subjects into lessons naturally as part the school curriculum. Parents can continue this learning experience and help their children develop key skills by encouraging various STEM-related activities at home. This doesn’t have to be a boring replica of their lessons; it can be fun and enjoyable for the family as a whole.

Read on for some examples provided by an independent, co-educational schoolin London on how you can explore STEM subjects with your kids…

Toys & Games

There are lots of toys and games available on the market that can spark an interest in STEM subjects and help a child learn. Jigsaw puzzles, for instance, require concentration and problem-solving skills. Even something as traditional as Monopoly will help a child with their numeracy skills as they will have to count their moves and add or subtract their money.

Fun in the Kitchen

Encourage your child to help you with the cooking or perhaps baking a cake. This is a fun activity that will also help your youngster with various imperial and metric measurements. There are probably lots of interesting things in your kitchen that you could use as part of a science experiment, such as food colouring or bicarbonate of soda. Even something as simple as water is great for learning about sinking and floating.

Playing Outside

If you don’t have a garden, take your child out for a walk every now and again so that they can explore elements of nature. Ask them to observe their surroundings and consider their senses; what can they see, smell, feel and hear? Talk to them about the weather and how it changes with the seasons.

 

Make STEM something you talk about with your child. For instance, if you’re in the car, you could explain to them how the engine works. Use dinnertime to discuss anything interesting you’ve read about in the news, like a medical breakthrough or severe weather conditions. Essentially, the trick is to normalise these subjects for your children. If you require additional information about STEM subjects and how you can explore them with your kids, don’t be afraid to contact your child’s teachers or delve into the fantastic resources found online.

- this is a collaborative post