The term STEAM, which stands for science, technology, engineering, art, and math, can sound a little intimidating. I must admit as a librarian and English major, science and math are not my strengths. I was curious how young parents view STEAM, so I asked my son and daughter in-law, who have two preschoolers, what they thought. My son had no idea what I was talking about. His response was “Steam, like from the rice cooker?”
Here’s the funny thing, they teach their kids STEAM all the time. My daughter-in-law is a great cook, she frequently has her kids cook with her. Cooking requires measurement, measuring requires math. STEAM! My son takes the kids on long hikes, he always points out insects, animals and their environment. Natural science. STEAM! There are many ways to learn about science, technology, engineering, art, and math in our everyday activities.
Here at Montgomery County Public Libraries, we understand the importance of play and that young children learn through play. For this reason, we create programs that are hands on, that encourage problem solving, but more importantly that are fun and enjoyable. Many of our programs include elements of STEAM and our goal is to not only instill a joy for reading, but for learning as well. We encourage inquiry, creativity, and engagement. Visit any of our storytimes and you will see the librarian asking questions, leading movement and encouraging parents to join in. For more information about play in the library, read this great article, "Public Libraries Harness the Power of Play," from the website of the National Association for the Education of Young Children.
STEAM can be as simple as incorporating non-fiction books into your child’s reading rotation. Parents and preschoolers alike love picture books. Many parents don’t realize we also have a wonderful collection of nonfiction for very young children. Some of my favorite nonfiction for little ones are Pigs by Sheri Doyle, Actual Size by Steve Jenkins, Go, Go, Grapes! by April Pulley Sayre, and How Much Does a Ladybug Weigh? by Alison Limentani.
I’d also like to mention a cool program rotating through our branches called The STEM Experience. The program includes educational toys called Cubettos and Code-a-pillars that help our youngest customers understand the very basics of coding. They use puzzle pieces and parts to create “code” that will provide direction to their robot or caterpillar. At a recent program, I watched as a young child created a code, adjusted to make it do what he wanted, then clapped his hands at his own success.
And of course, I don’t want to forget to mention our Little Explorer GO!Kits. We have kits assembled specifically for children ages 3-6 that explore many aspects of STEAM such as the human body, magnets, measurements, and recycling. These kits include books, an educational toy, and a Launchpad Playaway. Check your local library for availability.
Parents all this time you’ve been experts in STEAM and you didn’t even know it! To create even more STEAM opportunities for you and your kids you only need to step into your nearest MCPL branch. We’re here to help you learn, explore and create!
Labels: Books, Programs and Events, STEM
STEAM can be as simple as incorporating non-fiction books into your child’s reading rotation. Parents and preschoolers alike love picture books. Many parents don’t realize we also have a wonderful collection of nonfiction for very young children. Some of my favorite nonfiction for little ones are Pigs by Sheri Doyle, Actual Size by Steve Jenkins, Go, Go, Grapes! by April Pulley Sayre, and How Much Does a Ladybug Weigh? by Alison Limentani.