It’s no secret that science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) are all important subjects in education, but what about in early education? While some of these topics may seem too complex for preschoolers to grasp, child care providers and parents can start laying the foundation for certain STEAM-related skills and concepts earlier than you may think. The key is introducing the right activities at the right time.
At Primrose School of Five Forks, children learn and practice STEAM concepts—as well as concepts in language and literacy, social studies, music, physical development, character development and life skills— continuously throughout the day as part of the Primrose-exclusive approach called Balanced Learning®. While STEAM often provokes thoughts of science experiments, building blueprints or video games, for young children, STEAM looks more like the following:
- Science – Encouraging children to investigate and answer their own questions.
- Technology – Refers to using simple tools like crayons, rulers and magnifying glasses, as well as more complex ones like microscopes and computers.
- Engineering – Helping children recognize problems and test solutions to them.
- Arts – Fostering creativity and allowing children to illustrate concepts they are learning.
- Mathematics – Helping children explore numbers, but also patterns, shapes, organizational skills and much more.
There are many reasons to teach STEAM in preschool. STEAM skills are transferable across other subjects. Process skills, which include making observations, hypothesizing and critical thinking, are key components of STEAM. These skills help young children grasp math and science concepts early in life, but can also be applied to other subjects and more complex concepts later on. It’s also essential to engage children in STEAM subjects early on since they are becoming increasingly important in today’s world.
Incorporating STEAM learning into daily classroom activities, rather than using a kit or focusing on it during certain times of day, allows children to better connect with these concepts. The Primrose Balanced Learning approach is integrated, meaning every skill and concept taught is reinforced through a variety of different activities and guidance from teachers. For example, plants may be explored through free play, books, art, discussion and more, while Primrose teachers ask probing questions and share information along the way to guide and extend children’s thinking. This ensures each child has many opportunities to connect with the subject matter regardless of how he or she learns.
The Primrose Balanced Learning approach is guided by the latest research and established early education philosophies to ensure the best possible learning environment for children. Children are introduced to new skills and concepts when they are developmentally ready, which helps learning come more naturally. Each theme is also explored for a week or more so that children can learn at their own pace.
Whether Primrose children are investigating STEAM subjects, exercising language skills or learning about honesty, every Balanced Learning lesson is wrapped in fun, meaningful experiences designed to help all children reach their full potential.
To learn about Primrose School of Harmony on the Lakes, visit www.PrimroseHarmony.com or call 770.704.0721. For helpful parenting tips and information, visit the Pointers for Parents blog at www.PrimroseSchools.com/blog and sign up for the Pointers for Parents newsletter.
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