IN Mars Area Fall 2018 | Page 20

INDUSTRY INSIGHT EARLY EDUCATION SPONSORED CONTENT Five Ways to Encourage STEAM Learning STEAM learning (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) has become a vital part of early childhood education. STEAM concepts help prepare children for life in the 21st century. After all, STEAM-related jobs make up one of the fastest growing segments of the U.S. economy (Baird-Remba, Guey, & Lubin, 2013). This is expected to increase over time as children eventually join the workforce. Here are five ways you can encourage STEAM learning at home. POWERED BY STEAM. FUELED BY FUN! CALL TODAY! CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP • 724-778-9999 PITTSBURGH (DOWNTOWN) • 412-515-1997 GoddardSchool.com The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2018 ❘ 2. Watch STEAM-related TV shows and movies. While screen time should not be solely relied upon for education, there are many ways it can help enhance your child’s learning experience. Things like documentaries and educational programming may strengthen your child’s understanding of STEAM subjects. 4. Encourage questions. Children are naturally inquisitive, often asking “why?” or “how?” Following this thread of curiosity may lead to a STEAM subject which interests your child. If you don’t know the answer to your child’s question, research the topic with him. Enroll today! 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE 1. Take a field trip. Museums, zoos, aquariums, libraries and even public parks provide many opportunities to introduce STEAM subjects. Be sure to engage your child, ask her what she would like to see and ask whether she would like to learn more about what she has seen. 3. Conduct experiments. Many fun and easy science experiments can be done at home with simple household items. You can find some ideas here. You can also help your child keep a journal of the experiments she completes and record what she learns from each one. The Goddard School® uses its play-based F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) to introduce STEAM concepts (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) to help children develop a strong foundation for their future education and a passion for STEAM learning. 18 The solution is not necessarily as straightforward. Here are a few tips for a more successful nap (or at least quiet) time: icmags.com 5. Ask your child what she would like to be when she grows up. Many careers are tied to STEAM learning. Help your child find out more about the field she wants to pursue and what she needs to learn to get there. References | Baird-Remba, R., Guey, L., & Lubin, G. (5 June 2013). 14 US Industries That Will Boom In The Next Decade. Business Insider. Retrieved from http://www.businessinsider.com/americas-fastest- growing-industries-2013-6 This Industry Insight was written by Dina & Matt Speranza. They are the owners of The Goddard School® located at 8065 Rowan Road in Cranberry. Goddard offers both full- and part-time infant/preschool/kindergarten programs. For more information, visit www.goddardschool.com or call 724.778.9999.