The world is getting smarter by the day. With the new discoveries and technologies that make our world even more modern than ever, we need to stay on top of our learning game and continuously upgrade our skills.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are crucial to our kids’ future and their ability to thrive and succeed in a world driven by innovation. These four are not just subjects at school but a way of thinking and doing which are great foundations in solving some of the world’s greatest problems.
STEM is one of the most talked about topics in education. But what exactly is STEM? We already know what it stands for --- but it's more than just that.
What is STEM?
STEM represents a unique approach to teaching and learning. It is an educational approach that brings focus on one or more of the four disciplines in a way that gives emphasis on bridging the learning gap in children. This is done by exposing kids at the core of experience rather than relying on books, making them active learners rather than passive listeners.
Instead of learning the concepts from these disciplines individually, children are able to learn them through experience where they can see the application of what they normally learn at school or in books. By integrating concepts with real life situations, learning occurs in a natural and meaningful context for children.
As we live in a competitive world where technical and scientific skills are necessary in the workforce, applying STEM Learning starting from the early years is the key.
Why It Matters?
Learning and experiences all matter to children. The purpose of play for kids is not only for having fun and for them to enjoy their childhood with toys but it is also a crucial part of their growth and development. Play offers many opportunities for learning for children, thus, the application of STEM Learning in play time plays a great role in getting kids ready for the future.
Being able to engage in Science, Technology, Engineering & Math at a young age offers benefits that last throughout a person’s lifetime. It offers not only the basic foundations of many concepts but also new things that can set them up for future success.
STEM Learning is all about encouraging learners to intentionally observe and think about the world. Just as it is important, STEM Learning is fun! It fosters skills like critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity which all are important to develop starting from small.
Our Favorite STEM Products
ZAP! Extra: Build Your Own Super Rockets
Go on a fun mission and take your kids off to a great space adventure with this Build Your Own Pocket Rockets. Unleash their creativity and critical thinking by letting kids decorate and assemble their own rockets that will launch themselves into a universe of fun and learning.
Curious Universe Science: Extreme Earth Kit
Teach your kids the science behind earth’s natural phenomenon such as the lightning, geysers, snow storms, volcano eruptions, and more with this fun and mind-boggling science kit project. Recreate awesome extreme weather occurrences using simple materials like bottles, strings, and clips. Understand and explore how strange and amazing the earth is with every action-packed science project you create with your kids with this Extreme Earth Kit.
You don’t have to be a scientist to engage your kids in STEM thinking. Incorporate STEM through play with toys that allows them to think while having fun. Browse through The Toy Wagon’s great selection of STEM toys that help bring out the genius in your child!