KBLOG 78: Fostering STEM Interest Begins at Home
A student’s interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) often begins at home with their family. In my classroom, I’ve noticed that students who are innovative and creative almost always come from homes that prioritize learning and innovation as central parts of a child’s education.
While schools play an important role, relying solely on formal education to spark a child’s interest in STEM is usually not enough. Encouraging STEM curiosity and exploration at home can have a profound impact. The good news? Parents and guardians don’t need to be scientists or have experience in STEM to guide their children into these exciting, challenging STEM fields. Many simple and inexpensive strategies can inspire curiosity and exploration in STEM.
Here are some actionable ideas, further elaborated on in the articles linked below:
1. Encourage Questioning – Cultivate your child’s natural curiosity by encouraging them to ask “why” and “how” about the world around them.
2. Try Online or Television Programs – Many programs make STEM topics engaging and accessible for kids.
3. Visit a Science Museum – Hands-on exhibits and interactive displays provide opportunities for exploration and discovery.
4. Seek Out STEM Extracurriculars – Clubs, camps, and other activities can provide deeper engagement (see various KBLOG posts for suggestions).
5. Make Career Connections – Help your child explore the real-world applications of STEM careers.
6. Create STEM Kits and a Home Maker Space – Build a space at home with tools and materials to encourage hands-on experimentation and creativity.
For more detailed strategies, these articles provide excellent insights:
• 5 Ways Parents Can Support STEM Learning - https://www.understood.org/en/articles/stem-activities-at-home
• PTA STEM at Home Activities -https://www.pta.org/home/programs/stem/at-home
Additional Resources for STEM Activities
Below are some fantastic websites offering STEM activities and creative ideas for children to explore:
• Science Buddies Engineering Challenge: Hands-on engineering challenges for kids - https://www.sciencebuddies.org/engineering-challenge
• NASA at Home for Kids and Families: Explore space science and engineering from home - https://www.nasa.gov/nasa-at-home-for-kids-and-families/
• Zooniverse: Engage in people-powered research projects - https://www.zooniverse.org
• Creating a Maker Space: Affordable ideas for building a maker space at home or school - https://www.invent.org/blog/trends-stem/repurposing-classroom-materials
• Learning at Home Resources: STEM-focused learning activities beyond the classroom - https://www.invent.org/at-home-learning-resources
By taking small, intentional steps, parents and guardians can inspire a love for STEM in their children and nurture their curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills. For more ideas, check out additional past KBLOG posts!
