STEM

Below list and full article by Maureen Hunt can be found on Kinderly by clicking on the above STEM in Early Years link.

10 things you need to know about STEM in the early years

1. It is never too early to start learning about STEM, even babies can learn from STEM.

2. STEM isn’t a new subject – it’s a way of working and interacting with children.

3. STEM fosters children’s love of learning. They feel in control and eager to find out more.

4. STEM fits in perfectly with best early years practice and pedagogy: it is based on exploration, solving problems and trying out new ideas through hands-on activities.

5. Young children are brilliant at it! They are natural scientists and ask lots of questions. Taking the time to help them find out the answers is what STEM is all about.

6. Staff do not need to be trained to do STEM, just shown how to support children using a STEM-based philosophy.

7. You don’t need to buy expensive resources – you will have all you need and will find STEM resources everywhere in your setting.

8. STEM helps children learn and develop and promotes future academic success.

9. STEM can happen in all areas of the setting at all times of day.

10. It’s easier to do and a lot more fun than you think!