Children under five learn best through play. This age is ideal for introducing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math). With exposure to STEAM, kids develop problem-solving skills, learn to communicate, and ignite their curiosity. In short, children gain an upper hand as they prepare for school and everyday life. So, learn more about why preschool students need STEAM and how parents, caregivers, and teachers can nurture young children.

Learn to Ask Questions

While playing with STEAM-related objects and completing STEAM projects, children exercise critical thinking skills and learn to ask questions. These abilities are essential as children solve problems, conduct experiments and think through ideas in the classroom and beyond. After all, curiosity is a requirement for lifelong learners who continue to grow and share their knowledge with the world.

Discover Logical Thinking

Many STEAM projects require children to follow specific steps to complete the activity. For example, a child must first take the clay out of the box before they can mold it into shapes. Learning to follow directions and complete projects one step at a time sets the stage for children to develop logical problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Children can successfully tackle various classroom projects and real-world challenges with this ability.

Develop Creativity and Imagination

Encouraging children to explore interesting topics and engaging activities also allows their creativity and imagination to thrive. And with creativity and imagination, children become better problem solvers and critical thinkers. So, give children a variety of simple and complex objects they can use to create elaborate stories, fantasies, and scenarios. With a simple bucket of blocks or a handful of leaves, children develop essential skills to live, work and thrive in the 21st-century global economy.

Hone Perseverance

Everyday life and school assignments offer kids plenty of opportunities to persevere. Children must learn how to finish tasks and continue brainstorming solutions to problems. Early exposure to STEAM gives children options to practice persevering. They can develop “sticktoitiveness” as they complete projects, brainstorm possible solutions, and try new things during play.

Ignite a Purpose

Each child has unique talents and gifts, and children can discover their purpose through STEAM play. Exposing kids to various educational and fun activities helps them learn what they enjoy and don’t enjoy. This play can ignite a spark of purpose that informs their future career and hobbies. For example, they may realize they love building with blocks, tearing things apart, or painting rocks.

Instill a Love for Learning

Children can become excited to learn as they complete STEAM projects in preschool. Here, they discover a whole world of possibilities and engage in activities that excite their interests. Rather than a chore, learning is fun and playful. Kids can take this energy with them as they learn for the rest of their lives. And lifelong learners gain a sense of purpose, connect with others, and boost their personal and professional fulfillment.

Prepare for Future Academic Outcomes

Exposure to STEAM during preschool lays a solid foundation for future schooling. Children gain an understanding of concepts they will use in kindergarten and beyond. For example, they can learn proper experimentation methods while mixing colors and practice communication as they explain the windmill they built. These and other skills prepare children to thrive in the classroom.

Introduce STEAM to Preschoolers

A variety of STEAM kits introduce different activities and ideas to kids. Parents and preschool teachers can also create their own STEAM activities.

Be sure to provide a mix of adult-led instruction and child-centered free time. Adults can guide children and offer assistance while reinforcing autonomy and independence. Plus, children develop essential skills as they play and learn independently. Here are several suggestions for STEAM play.

• Stock a craft bucket with string, paper, fabric, and other household objects, and let kids create mosaics, monsters, or anything they can imagine.

• Construct towers, towns, and vehicles using blocks, rocks, sticks, or clay.

• Fix small appliances or toys together.

• Build robots.

• Encourage role-playing with costumes and various dress-up accessories.

• Solve jigsaw puzzles.

• Complete a scavenger hunt while shopping or hiking.

• Create an indoor or outdoor maze using boxes, sofa cushions, tree branches, and other objects.

• Measure the ingredients, mix the batter, and bake cookies, pancakes, or mud pies.

• Paint on paper, rocks, and other mediums while exploring color mixing, blotting, and other techniques.

• Experiment with different cleaning products like vinegar, lemon juice, or peroxide.

• Manipulate magnets on the refrigerator or a baking sheet.

• Play Drag and Drop games on a tablet.

• Count objects while arranging them in mosaic designs.

• Read books about STEAM subjects.

• Draw illustrations for a favorite family story.

Preschool play prepares children for their future. Incorporate STEAM to ignite a love for learning and lay a solid foundation for future success.