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Infants and toddlers are natural scientists who are exploring their environment and everything in it. People, toys, objects, and surroundings are touched, tasted, and listened to.
The goal of STEM is to create a way of thinking about the world that encompasses problem-solving, discovery and analyzation.
Infants begin their environmental exploration from birth by observing and creating knowledge about everything in their lives. As part of the scientific exploration in an infant’s life, they observe, experiment, analyze and communicate their findings. These scientific experiments will continue into the toddler years and become more intricate.
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Caregivers and child care professionals should be aware of the importance of STEM as well as the support that they provide both directly and indirectly. A typical infant or toddler classroom should be designed and maintained with STEM concepts in mind, as well as the interactions between teacher and peers.
What does STEM look like for infants and toddlers?
Science
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Observing, describing, communicating, exploring, asking questions
Example: Exploring a sensory bin
TechnologyUsing tools, creating tools or solving problems through a process
Example: Using a measuring cup to scoop and drink water instead of a sippy cup
EngineeringBuilding or creating things to meet a need or requirement
Example: Moving a box near a countertop to use as a step stool
MathCounting, sorting, shapes, spatial relationships, patterns
Example: Understanding that a toy is just behind an adult’s back and not gone forever
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