Over the past few years, STEM has become a buzzword among educationists, parents and policymakers. For the uninitiated, the word STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
STEM in education is getting popular because it encourages critical thinking, problem-
solving, technological mindset and innovation in children. It makes the learning of STEM subjects experiential, engaging and immersive for children. As a career also, STEM background provides lucrative career opportunities.
Here are some ways to encourage your children to develop an interest in STEM:
1. Answer Their Curiosity
Children ask millions of questions, expecting you to answer. But, how often do you really satisfy their curiosity? Next time, your children ask some questions, answer them. Curiosity
enables them to become intuitive, develop observation skills and dig out reasons to uncover
something.
2. Give Them STEM Toys and Games
These days, there is no dearth of STEM toys and games. You can easily buy them online on
any e-commerce site. Some of these toys and games are available as DIY learning kits which
encourage children to experiment while having fun.
3. Visit Science Exhibitions and Centres
Science exhibitions and centres are a goldmine of information. They have several interactive
exhibits and models that spark the curiosity of children. They can observe everything at
close quarters and engage themselves for hours.
4. Conduct Experiments at Home
Storm in a glass. Lava lamp. Apple oxidation. Magic leakproof bag.
These are just a few experiments that your children can do at home with your help or alone
based on their age. You will find several YouTube videos and Instagram handles that teaches
easy to do experiments with readily available materials at home. One such wonderful
resource is TheDadLab by Sergei Urban, a dad of two. He shares some wonderful and simple
science experiments and craft ideas to do at home.
5. Try Cooking and Baking
It may seem that what do cooking and baking have to do with STEM? Well, you would be
surprised to know that your kitchen can be an amazing laboratory for your children. They
can learn how bread rises, why water gets bubbles on heating, how to handle food waste through composting, why the right measurement is important for a cake, etc. These hands-
on experiments will not only give them joy but also teach them STEM conceptions in the
process.
6. Enrol in STEM Classes
Many schools and activity centres offer dedicated STEM classes for children. There is a
structured curriculum along with engaging activities designed to suit your children’s age and
interests. Right from coding and programming to robotics and LEGO problem-solving, your
children can choose any activity of their like. Explore STEM classes here.
What are your views about STEM? How do you encourage your child to develop an interest
in STEM?
