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Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts are a central part of life today. There are very few tasks and routine tasks that are not supported or driven by advanced tools in some way. This makes it increasingly important for students to be able to confidently explore STEM subjects.
Unfortunately, there is limited time available to devote to this during the school day. As a parent, one of the ways you can support education in the classroom is by encouraging STEM learning at home. Even a little extra STEM activity, with your encouragement, can help strengthen children’s understanding and prepare them for the world they will face as adults.
Creating a STEM space
One of the things that can be a barrier to learning in STEM is not having adequate space for it. These activities can be messy, sometimes noisy, and require concentration. Taking a little time to create a STEM space in your home can make it easier for your child to engage in extracurricular learning.
Garages often make perfect STEM spaces. You’re less likely to be overly concerned about spills, and a location further away from the main house may be better suited to louder behavior. You can make this space a better space by clearing away the clutter so you can dedicate at least part of the space to projects. Installing a transparent workbench with a power outlet can make STEM activities more practical.
No matter where you set up your space, it is important to have an attitude that puts safety first. Some STEM projects may pose fire-related risks, especially when handling tools, flammable materials, and electricity. Take your time and get through it Fire safety procedures for home and garage With your kids. This includes talking about how fires start and taking precautions, such as keeping paper and other materials away from heat sources. You should also put together a fire plan that includes exit strategies for the STEM space and how to use fire extinguishers.
Find practical projects
The classroom is a great place for theoretical learning. However, you may find that your child is less likely to want to pick up a book and learn theory during out-of-school hours. Practice STEM while you’re at home Projects are a better way. This tends to be more fun and more engaging.
In fact, in a recent study Project-based learning (PBL) intervention In science classes, students have been shown to respond positively not only academically, but also on social and emotional learning levels. Therefore, hands-on learning at home can be a powerful addition to your child’s educational experience.
One good approach to this is to find projects you can do to improve your home that reflect STEM concepts. For example, an energy efficiency project may include a STEM element. You can explore science and engineering principles by developing a solar energy project together or integrating a smart thermostat system into your home. Math principals are also involved in assessing energy efficiency gaps and ways to improve.
However, if possible, it is wise to be influenced by your child’s specific interests. If you like games, you can start a programming project together. This can be started like this: Scratch at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) software. From here, you can build on the basic knowledge to encourage more complex projects, such as building apps or setting up a home Internet of Things (IoT) network. Starting with your child’s interests first can help them develop a passion for STEM skills and find new ways to use them.
Participate in community resources
Remember that fostering STEM learning outside of the classroom doesn’t have to depend entirely on what you can provide on your own. Every parent has a variety of resources, including project funding, space availability, and even time to dedicate. One approach you can take is to engage with community STEM resources that can enrich your child’s knowledge and provide a positive collaborative experience.
Citizen science projects are a great place to start. Often these studies are led by knowledgeable and passionate researchers. They can play an important role in conveying their knowledge and passion for the topic through the project. There are great online databases where you can search for local and national citizen science opportunities for children. SiStarter and geographical country.
Additionally, if you don’t have space at home for STEM projects, there are a growing number of public spaces you can use. Libraries are often a valuable resource where librarians actively collaborate with science educators and experts to prepare projects. Many cities also have makerspaces where students can learn practical STEM skills from knowledgeable community members. For example, at a library or makerspace, your child can learn about: Applications in fields such as 3D printers and constructionThis is where technology is growing rapidly.
Community for something more competitive robotics club Diverse teams of children often take on challenges where they work together to build robotic solutions. They learn from community members, each other, and competitors.
conclusion
STEM learning outside of the classroom doesn’t have to be complicated. Providing adequate space, collaborating on projects, and interacting with the community can enrich your child’s education. If you’re stuck for ideas, talk to your child about what they learned in their STEM class. This will give you some ideas to build on with some additional activities.
By Katie Brenneman.
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