In recent years, the acronym STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) has gained significant recognition as an important part of a modern education. It emphasizes critical skills that children and young adults need for success in the 21st century – and with the prominence of technology in our world, the job market for STEM has skyrocketed alongside its educational demands.
What you may not be familiar with, however, is a subtle yet impactful change to the original concept of STEM, which transforms it into STEAM by adding the arts. Let’s dive into the origins of both STEM and STEAM, explore how these topics can be integrated into early childhood education, and highlight how Childcare Network embraces STEAM in our curriculum to nurture well-rounded learners.
More on STEM in education.
STEM is a multi-part approach to education that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. Learning about and exploring topics within STEM prepares students to thrive in a rapidly evolving, technology-focused landscape, and equips them with the skills they need for success in high school, college, and a wide range of careers post-graduation.
Many are familiar with the more higher education and career-centric version of STEM – whether it be understanding the principles of physics, or taking a coding class in college. Though these are common examples, STEM concepts are present in various aspects of our daily lives, and play a much bigger role than driving advancements in fields such as healthcare, engineering, and environmental science.
When did STEM become STEAM?
The evolution of STEM to STEAM can be traced back to 2012, when the United States National Research Council proposed STEAM as a new teaching method for K-12 science classes. The “A” in STEAM encompasses visual arts, language arts, physical arts, music, and more. By integrating arts into STEM education, STEAM provides a holistic learning experience that nurtures creativity, innovation, and new ways of thinking. This prepares young students for their futures by equipping them with the skills that are essential for success in a dynamic and interconnected world.
The history of STEAM.
The integration of arts into STEM education marks a shift in the philosophy behind education, recognizing the intrinsic value of creativity and imagination in driving innovation and problem-solving. STEAM advocates argue that by combining STEM disciplines with the arts, students are better equipped to tackle complex challenges and adapt to rapidly changing environments. This approach matches the connectedness of the world and empowers students to make meaningful connections between different areas of knowledge.
How STEAM is integrated into classrooms nationwide.
Across the country, educators in all grade levels are embracing STEAM as a way to integrate the arts into STEM education.
From adding music and dance into science lessons, to using visuals to explore mathematical concepts, teachers are finding innovative ways to engage students in STEAM learning experiences. By leveraging the power of creativity and imagination, educators are creating fun, skill-building learning environments that inspire curiosity and foster a deep appreciation for both the arts and sciences.
How Childcare Network integrates STEAM into our curriculum.
Childcare Network is committed to providing children with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in early education and beyond. Our proprietary HighReach Learning curriculum integrates STEAM principles into every aspect of our program, from hands-on science experiments to creative arts activities.
By incorporating STEAM into our curriculum, we empower children to explore, innovate, and collaborate as they develop critical thinking skills and a love for learning.
The role of STEM and STEAM in early childhood education.
In early childhood education, introducing STEAM concepts lays a strong foundation for future learning and development. STEM activities engage young learners in hands-on exploration, experimentation, and inquiry-based learning, fostering curiosity and a love for discovery. However, recognizing the importance of creativity and artistic expression in shaping well-rounded individuals, educators have widened the scope of STEM education to include the arts, giving rise to STEAM.
More about Childcare Network and our focus on STEAM.
Join us in providing your child with a holistic STEAM education that fosters creativity, curiosity, and innovation. Visit our Location Finder today to schedule a tour at the nearest Childcare Network location to you. Together, we can lay the foundation for your child’s future success and inspire a lifelong love for learning.
