STEM toys aren’t something commonly known to all, simply because the education system doesn’t emphasise on them enough. These toys integrate science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and are known to barely 20% of our population. STEM careers are some of the fastest growing in the country and are also the highest paying, which makes it imperative for children to be well-acquainted with it. But STEM education needs to be taught early (even as early as 3 years of age), and sustainably, so it isn’t out of sight, out of minds, for young students. Kids need to stay captivated with STEM learning and apply it in their adulthood. Here’s why we can’t stop stressing on the importance of STEM learning:
- STEM isn’t hard: Simply because we adults didn’t have STEM education back in the day, we assume it’s difficult, for an older age group, and young children would get overwhelmed trying to learn it. The reality is far from that. When young minds are introduced to subjects like Maths and Science made fun, they are more confident of facing the subjects in school and actually begin to enjoy them because they’re ahead of the curve already. When they are confident about succeeding, they are willing to build full-fledged, successful careers out of it.
- STEM Toys teach problem solving: STEM toys are some of the best to introduce your child to if you want them to work on cognitive development skills and stay engaged with problem-solving exercises. They sharpen a child’s memory and encourage independence, as children learn to overcome challenges all on their own. Winning at these games or solving these puzzles are usually accompanied by various problems and challenges that a child needs to solve.
- STEM makes learning fun: All work and no play doesn’t just make Jack a dull boy, but every other child too. Every parent wants their child to have fun while learning, and that’s exactly what STEM education does. Whether it’s building a ship with LEGO blocks, gadget making, solving a complex number game, or anything else, STEM playtime is always an enjoyable experience for children because they know they aren’t just learning, but also having fun.
- They teach real-life skills: Whoever thought mathematicians and scientists couldn’t get creative, STEM will prove you wrong. These toys not only enhance creativity and critical thinking, but also significantly improve motor skills and coordination. STEM toys have several different options and several solutions which highlight decision-making skills, encouraging kids to think more and get creative using different solutions. All four aspects of STEM encourage learning new skills and develop strong analytical thinking.
- They are fun for all: When your child is learning to solve something, they are most likely to come to you asking for a solution. STEM is one of the few toys that would keep you, as an adult, engrossed too. As you solve the puzzle with your child, you learn so much about technology and engineering which you probably missed in your youth. In fact, these toys can be so much fun that you’d WANT to help your child find a solution, just so you can play along too.
What we’re trying to emphasize is that STEM toys are great for all, and it’s never too early to introduce your child to them. At BeSingular, we strongly believe in paving new paths for learning and opening up a world of future technologies for young minds. STEM learning can be the first step to it all!