By Amber M. Simpson, Binghamton University, State University of New York
One of the consequences is the elimination of learning opportunities, such as robotics camps and access to advanced math courses, for K-12 students.
Related: High School Students Can Get a Head Start on College this Summer — For Free.
As a result, families and caregivers are more essential than ever in supporting children’s learning.
Based on my research, I offer four ways to support children’s summer learning in ways that feel playful and engaging but still foster their interest, confidence, and skills in STEM.
1. Find a problem
To support STEM learning outside of school, encourage children to find and solve problems. kali9/Getty Images
Look for “problems” in or around your home to engineer a solution for. Engineering a solution could include brainstorming ideas, drawing a sketch, creating a prototype or a first draft, testing and improving the prototype and communicating about the invention.
For example, one family in our research created an upside-down soap dispenser for the following problem: “the way it’s designed” − specifically, the straw − “it doesn’t even reach the bottom of the container. So there’s a lot of soap sitting at the bottom.”
To identify a problem and engage in the engineering design process, families are encouraged to use common materials. The materials may include cardboard boxes, cotton balls, construction paper, pine cones and rocks.
Our research found that when children engage in engineering in the home environment with caregivers, parents and siblings, they communicate about and apply science and math concepts that are often “hidden” in their actions.
For instance, when building a paper roller coaster for a marble, children think about how the height will affect the speed of the marble. In math, this relates to the relationship between two variables, or the idea that one thing, such as height, impacts another, the speed. In science, they are applying concepts of kinetic energy and potential energy. The higher the starting point, the more potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, which makes the marble move faster.
In addition, children are learning what it means to be an engineer through their actions and experience. Families and caregivers play a role in supporting their creative thinking and willingness to work through challenging problems.
2. Spark curiosity
Spontaneous learning moments can lead to deep engagement and learning of STEM concepts. cglade/Getty Images
Open up a space for exploration around STEM concepts driven by their interests.
Currently, my research with STEM professionals who were homeschooled talk about the power of learning sparked by curiosity.
One participant stated, “At one time, I got really into ladybugs, well Asian Beatles I guess. It was when we had like hundreds in our house. I was like, what is happening? So, I wanted to figure out like why they were there, and then the difference between ladybugs and Asian beetles because people kept saying, these aren’t actually ladybugs.”
Researchers label this serendipitous science engagement, or even spontaneous math moments. The moments lead to deep engagement and learning of STEM concepts. This may also be a chance to learn things with your child.
3. Facilitate thinking
In my research, being uncertain about STEM concepts may lead to children exploring and considering different ideas. One concept in particular − playful uncertainties − is when parents and caregivers know the answer to a child’s uncertainties but act as if they do not know.
For example, suppose your child asks, “How can we measure the distance between St. Louis, Missouri, and Nashville, Tennessee, on this map?” You might respond, “I don’t know. What do you think?” This gives children the chance to share their ideas before a parent or caregiver guides them toward a response.
4. Bring STEM to life
Overhearing or participating in budget talks can help children develop math skills and financial literacy. SeizaVisuals/Getty Images
Turn ordinary moments into curious conversations.
“This recipe is for four people, but we have 11 people coming to dinner. What should we do?”
In a recent interview, one participant described how much they learned from listening in on financial conversations, seeing how decisions got made about money, and watching how bills were handled. They were developing financial literacy and math skills.
As they noted, “By the time I got to high school, I had a very good basis on what I’m doing and how to do it and function as a person in society.”
Globally, individuals often lack financial literacy, which can lead to negative outcomes in the future, particularly in areas such as retirement planning and debt management.
Why is this important?
Research shows that discussing STEM concepts with friends and family supports children's self-perception as learners and their later success in STEM fields, even if they do not pursue a career in STEM.
My research also demonstrates how family STEM participation provides children with opportunities to explore STEM concepts in ways that extend beyond their typical school experiences.
In my view, these kinds of STEM experiences don’t compete with what children learn in school − they strengthen and support it.
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.
