ing, critical thinking, and creativity at
each grade level. STEAM links the fine
arts to STEM.
What Are STEM
Lessons Like?
STEM programs in elementary
school are much like science experi-
ments. They are hands-on and inquiry
based. Kids use recycled and simple ma-
terials to solve a problem and proceed in
open-ended exploration. The STEM ap-
proach allows for a variety of answers
and conclusions — they are not always
successful, but the process is important
to understanding.
Here’s an example:
1. Design a ramp for a matchbox car
to jump as far as possible.
2. Select a team or two to three stu-
dents
3. Create a car ramp from scavenged
supplies, including straws, card-
board, toilet tubes, paper clips, and
other approved materials.
4. It should be no more than 18 inches
high, no longer than 18 inches, and
no wider than 6 inches.
5. Success will be measured by how
far your car jumps after exiting
your ramp. The teacher will deter-
mine how many trial runs you will
have.
Is your child going through a tough time?
Summit’s Behavioral Pediatrics Clinic can help!
Providing comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for children
and adolescents struggling with:
n ANXIETY/DEPRESSION
n EMOTIONAL CHALLENGES
Let's Take
Education Forward
Today many schools are adopting
a curriculum based on STEM/STEAM
learning in elementary school. Hopeful-
ly parents will get a better understanding
on how education expands and grows
with this focus. As Rabindranath Tagore,
Nobel Prize winner in literature, states,
“Don’t limit a child to your own learn-
ing, for he was born in another time.”
STEM education is a new beginning for
learning in the future.
n FEEDING DISORDERS
n AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
n SOCIAL SKILLS CHALLENGES
n SCHOOL PROBLEMS
n ADHD
n BEHAVIORAL CHALLENGES
Accepting
NEW PATIENTS
Our caring team of licensed
psychologists specializes in the
treatment of childhood challenges.
Most insurance plans accepted.
NEW LOCATION!
75 Pineview Dr., Suite 200 • Amherst, NY
Office hours:
Monday – Friday, 8:30 – 6 p.m.
(Evening appointments available.)
Tania Cowling is a former teacher, au-
thor, and freelance writer. She lives in
central Florida.
Call 629-3400 for more information and to schedule an appointment.
www.TheSummitCenter.org
December 2018 WNY Family 21