11/18/2024
The Importance of Early STEM Learning for Preschoolers
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) surrounds us every day—from mixing ingredients in the kitchen to calculating a monthly budget. Surprisingly, these concepts are just as valuable for preschoolers as they are for adults. While STEM might seem advanced for young children, introducing these ideas early can ignite a passion for learning and lay a strong foundation for future success in these fields.
Why Early STEM Matters
A child’s brain develops at an astonishing rate in the first five years, forming up to one million new neural connections every second (Harvard Center on the Developing Child)*. This makes early childhood the perfect time to harness a child’s curiosity and teach them basic STEM concepts through observation, playful activities, and conversations. Early exposure to STEM builds critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for growth and learning.
STEM activities are all about discovery. When kids engage in hands-on experiences—like experimenting with water, stacking blocks, or observing how shadows change—they’re actively learning. These experiences also encourage teamwork, communication, and creativity, setting children up for success in and out of the classroom.
The Growing Importance of STEM
STEM learning isn’t just about preparing kids for school; it’s about setting them up for a rapidly evolving world. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment in STEM fields will increase by 10.4% by 2033**, emphasizing the importance of having a solid understanding of these areas. Whether your child becomes an architect, scientist, or an innovative chef, the critical thinking and problem-solving skills developed through STEM will serve them well.
Encouraging STEM at Home
Incorporating STEM into your daily routine is easier than you think! Everyday activities, like exploring the backyard or talking about the weather, can be fantastic learning experiences. Even simple questions like, “What do you think will happen if…?” can spark curiosity and critical thinking.
Try This STEAM Activity at Home: DIY Rainbow Jar Engage your little one in a fun and colorful science experiment with this at-home activity.
Materials Needed:
- Honey or corn syrup
- Dish soap
- Water
- Rubbing alcohol
- Food coloring
- Clear glass jar
Instructions:
- Gather all your ingredients and a clear jar.
- Mix honey with a few drops of food coloring and carefully pour it into the bottom of the jar.
- Slowly add dish soap to create a second layer.
- Next, color some water and gently pour it over the back of a spoon to add it to the jar.
- Finally, mix food coloring into the rubbing alcohol and add it as the top layer, again using a spoon to prevent splashing.
- Watch as the liquids form separate layers to create a beautiful rainbow! Discuss why the liquids don’t mix and which ones are heavier or lighter.
This fun and educational experiment helps children observe density and practice careful measurement and observation—key skills in STEM learning!
Why It Works
Each liquid in the Rainbow Jar has a different density, which means some are heavier (denser) and others are lighter (less dense). The denser liquids, like honey or corn syrup, sink to the bottom of the jar, while less dense liquids, like rubbing alcohol, float on top.
- Honey or corn syrup is the densest liquid in this experiment, so it sinks to the bottom.
- Dish soap is slightly less dense than honey, but still denser than water, so it creates the next layer.
- Colored water is less dense than the dish soap, which allows it to float on top of the soap layer.
- Rubbing alcohol is the least dense liquid, which is why it floats at the very top.
How the Layers Stay Separated
The layers don’t mix because the liquids have different densities and because we add them carefully using a spoon. If we were to pour the liquids quickly, they could mix together, disrupting the separation. This experiment provides a hands-on way for children to observe how density works and see that heavier liquids will settle at the bottom while lighter liquids float on top.
A Strong Start with STEM
Introducing STEM concepts early in life can make a world of difference. By engaging in simple activities and asking curious questions, parents and caregivers can inspire children to explore and understand the world around them. Together, we can nurture a love of learning that will help children thrive, no matter where their future takes them.
For more ideas and resources on early STEM education, explore:
- Why is STEM Important for My Preschooler?
- Easy Ways to Teach STEM at Home
- Incorporate STEM Concepts into Everyday Experiences for Young Learners
References:
- Harvard Center on the Developing Child. Brain Architecture. Link
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. STEM Employment Projections. Link