Hanging on by a STEM

In the United States a large number of students and teachers in the area of science, technology, engineering and mathematics are not prepared for these areas of study. Resulting in less and less numbers of children pursuing these degrees when they get older. An international assessment of students of the age of 15 rank 20th among all nations. This being a paradox from a nation that is considered to be a world leader in innovation. Since the year of 2005, the government has made efforts to rectify the problem by developing and implementing programs and incentives in our schools, and after school programs. Parents could take an active role in encouraging their children to explore these programs. There are many educational toys that can develop an interest in these subjects. One product in particular is Lego’s Mindstorm NXT. This is a robot that children from 9 and up can develop analytical and creative thinking skills by building a robot out of Lego parts, and then developing basic computer programs that will command the robot to do certain functions. If your child is younger than 9 years old, Lego’s product called the WeDo will teach children less complex basic robotic skills. If your child is into video games and computers check out Lifelong Kindergarten Group at MIT Media Lab’s basic programming language called Scratch. This program teaches children to again to think analytical by using snap blocks to program their very own game, interactive stories and much more. Children are even allowed to put their creations on the Scratch website www.scratch.mit.edu. These are just a few programs that will help develop your child’s interest in the STEM programs. Check out your local library and school for more ideas to enhance your child’s learning in these areas of study. Incorporate a STEM activitiy in your family time e.g. have a Science day at home. Such as doing a simple science experiment using your child’s favorite candy. For ideas check out candyexperiments.com.