How To Incorporate STEM into Everyday Activities for Kids

Image taken from the U.S. News 

By: Pedro Pablo Spoerer

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education is essential in preparing children for the future. In today’s world, technology is advancing rapidly, and there is a high demand for people with STEM skills! Some of these skills are  critical thinking or problem solving skills. Therefore, it is crucial to encourage children to develop an interest in STEM fields from a young age. One way to do this is by incorporating STEM into everyday activities.

Some Activity Ideas for Incorporating STEM In kids everyday lives:

Image taken from BBCGoodFood

Cooking:

Cooking and baking are great opportunities to teach children about measurements, ratios, and temperature! For instance, measuring ingredients is a chance for kids to practice their math skills, while understanding the impact of temperature and timing on cooking or baking is a perfect way to introduce basic concepts of chemistry and physics.

Gardening:

Gardening is a great way to teach children about plant biology and environmental science. Children can learn about the growth process of plants, the impact of sunlight, soil nutrients, and water on plants, and how to maintain a healthy garden. This activity can also help children develop a sense of responsibility and appreciation for nature.

Building:

Building with blocks or Legos is an excellent way to develop children’s engineering and creativity skills. Children can learn how to design and build structures, understand balance and stability, and solve problems through trial and error. This activity can also help children develop their fine motor skills and spatial awareness.

Nature Walks:

Nature walks are a great way to explore the natural world and learn about different species of plants and animals. Children can observe the environment, make predictions, and ask questions. This activity can also help children develop an appreciation for the environment and understand the importance of conservation.

Board Games:

Board games such as chess, checkers, and monopoly can help children develop their problem-solving, critical thinking, and strategic planning skills. These games require children to think ahead, make decisions, and adjust their strategies based on their opponents’ moves.

Science Experiments:

Science experiments are a fun and engaging way to teach children about scientific concepts. For instance, children can learn about the properties of different materials by making slime, or they can learn about density by making lava lamps. Science experiments can help children develop their observation and analysis skills and encourage their curiosity and creativity.

Coding and Robotics:

Coding and robotics are becoming increasingly important in today’s technology-driven world. Children can learn basic coding skills through simple programs like Scratch, which can help them understand programming logic and develop their problem-solving skills. Robotics kits can also help children develop their engineering skills by building and programming robots.

In conclusion, incorporating STEM into everyday activities for kids is a great way to develop their interest and skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These activities can also help children develop their creativity, problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills, which are essential for success in the future. 

Parents and caregivers in schools can explore the different activities that suit their children’s interests and encourage them to ask questions and explore the world around them! By providing children with opportunities to learn and grow, we can help them become the innovators and problem solvers of tomorrow. If you are interested in more activities here is an active link with more ideas! 

Edited by: Alexis Santillana