As parents, we all want our children to grow up with a lifelong love for learning. The best way to foster this is to encourage children’s natural curiosity. This is where STEM toys come in.
What are STEM toys?
STEM toys are excellent tools to introduce your little one to the fundamental concepts of science, technology, engineering, and math. STEM toys provide children with a variety of opportunities for hands-on learning. Playing with STEM toys can be a great way to encourage your child’s natural curiosity. These types of toys incorporate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts in an engaging way that is fun for kids of all ages.
Some examples of STEM toys and activities include:
- Building blocks, like Legos or K’Nex
- Educational computer games, such as Toca Boca
- Designing robots with LEGO Mindstorms kits
- Using light sensors to create art projects
- Solving problems by programming code (using Code Academy or Scratch)
- Tinkering with circuits using Snap Circuits kits
- Exploring the solar system through space exploration missions at NASA’s website
…and so much more!
Unlike toys used for pretend play, STEM toys are more about active play, which means children interact with the toys in a whole new way. These types of toys are designed to encourage active and interactive engagement that inspires children to discover more about the world and themselves.
According to experts, it’s never too soon to expose young kids to STEM-related concepts through play. Here are some of the best reasons why you should start investing in STEM toys for your kids now.
STEM toys debunk the myth that STEM subjects are too difficult
Did you know that many adults do not pursue STEM-related careers because they believe this field is too hard? This misconception can negatively impact the way children view these subjects and can cause them to believe that pursuing careers in these fields is unattainable. STEM toys can debunk these misconceptions, as they help children see how many STEM-related concepts are more manageable than they may seem.
Being exposed to STEM concepts from an early age with the help of STEM toys can help increase children’s confidence about learning these subjects. When kids engage in these types of activities, it helps them realize that mastering math and science are attainable goals.
STEM toys promote creative thinking
What could be better than encouraging children to stretch their imagination to create something new and different? Engaging in STEM-focused activities provides children with plenty of opportunities for creative thinking, which helps them develop skills in the areas of problem-solving, spatial reasoning, engineering concepts, and more. Plus, it helps children build confidence in their own accomplishments and inspires them to keep learning.
STEM toys are good for building cognitive skills
STEM toys can enrich children’s developing cognitive skills, such as their logical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and critical thinking. STEM-related activities teach children more than just memorizing facts and figures. Children learn valuable skills that are useful throughout their lives. They provide ample opportunity for children to think critically, assess a problem, and come up with the best approach or solution.
STEM toys improve fine motor skills
Another benefit of using STEM toys is that they provide children with opportunities to improve dexterity and hand-eye coordination. The act of building with blocks and tinkering with puzzles can help enhance children’s fine motor skills, and build their confidence in their physical and intellectual abilities.
STEM toys make learning fun
Who says learning has to be boring? By playing with STEM toys, children are more likely to approach these subject areas with interest and excitement. They are also more likely to associate science and math with a greater sense of freedom, fun, and discovery. Whether kids are learning the basic math concepts or building a complex science project, STEM toys can make learning and playtime a fun experience.
STEM Toys are great for parent-child bonding
Sometimes, we as parents forget that we play a crucial role in our children’s development as well. Studies show that parents who regularly engage in their children’s education have kids who perform higher academically. So why not do some hands-on experiments with your child at home using simple supplies around your home (like water bottles)? In addition to being an excellent way to make learning interactive, it’s also a great avenue for some fun parent-child bonding as it brings the whole family together.
It’s never too early to introduce your little one to STEM topics. Provide children with STEM toys during their early years, and activate their interest in these subjects for success in school and beyond!
For more parenting tips, feel free to visit Cornerstone Learning Center.