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Parents might be hearing much more about STEM and STEAM education nowadays, especially as kids get deeper into the school year. But exactly what do those letters stand for, and why is that learning approach essential?
First off, parents, don’t be intimidated! There are so many fun and easy methods to engage your kids in STEM/STEAM activities. For the uninitiated, STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, while STEAM adds an “A” for art.
But how can this be educational curriculum so important? The STEM/STEAM approach helps kids learn problem-solving and critical-thinking skills which are helpful not only on their own educational journey however in their future careers as well.
Here are three STEM/STEAM-friendly toys which will encourage kids to consider critically, problem-solve and get creative in the process. Actually, they’ll have so much fun, they may not even realize they’re learning, too!
Just Play Ada Twist, Scientist On-the-Go Lab Set, $44.44
Based around the book – and now the brand new Netflix show – Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty, the needed Play Ada Twist, Scientist On-The-Go Lab Set with Experiment Cards is ideal for kids who choose to obtain on the job. Packed with kid-friendly scientific accessories like test tubes, beakers along with a working scale, this lab the same shape as a roller backpack will inspire kids to get creative, too. The set comes with six experiment cards, so kids ages 3 or more can test a variety of hypotheses and solve problems along the way.
Stomp Rocket Stunt Planes, $29.99
Kids will love getting active with this particular STEM-friendly activity. Designed by aeronautical engineers, the Stomp Rocket Stunt Planes will have kids running, jumping and, of course, stomping to determine precisely how high or how far their stunt planes can fly. Each plane boasts a different design that gives it unique movements in mid-air. Kids ages 5 and up can also adjust the air-powered rocket launch stand to test out different flight plans for his or her stunt planes. Talk about adding some kid capacity to engineering!
KiwiCo Koala Crate – Camping, $26.95
The camping-themed Koala Crate from KiwiCo, created for kids ages 2 to 4, definitely inspires kids to get crafty and firmly puts the “A” in STEAM. While kids make use of the battery-powered tea light to light up their felt-flamed campfire, they’re finding out how to create real-world objects from abstract shapes. The work kit also has a backpack and a kid-friendly magazine with puzzles and games. Kids might even wish to assemble their campfire accessories in the backyard or a nearby park, where they are able to see science and nature close up! (Keep in mind that KiwiCo subscription prices vary.)
