5 STEM Activities for Pre-Schoolers

STEM education – encompassing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics – is not just for older children! Even pre-schoolers can benefit from engaging in STEM activities, and introducing young children to STEM concepts through playful and hands-on learning fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Here are 5 simple and fun STEM activities parents and whānau can try with tamariki at home.

1. Building Structures with Blocks

Provide your child with a variety of building blocks and encourage them to create different structures, such as towers, bridges and houses. This activity helps develop their understanding of engineering principles and enhances their spatial awareness and fine motor skills.

2. Simple Science Experiments

Science experiments can be a lot of fun and highly educational for young children. Try the classic baking soda and vinegar volcano experiment. Fill a small container with baking soda, add a few drops of food colouring, and then pour in vinegar to watch the bubbly reaction. This activity introduces children to chemical reactions and basic scientific observation.

3. Exploring Nature

Take your child on a nature walk and collect various natural items like leaves, rocks and flowers. Back at home, examine these items under a magnifying glass and discuss their characteristics. This activity encourages observation skills, teaches basic biology and fosters a love of nature.

4. Coding for Kids

Introduce your child to the basics of coding with simple, age-appropriate coding toys and games. Many coding toys involve sequencing and problem-solving, which are fundamental skills in programming. These toys make learning about technology interactive and fun.

5. Math Games

Incorporate math into playtime with games that involve counting, sorting and patterns. Use colourful beads or buttons to create patterns and ask your child to continue the sequence. Simple board games that involve counting spaces also help develop numerical skills and logical thinking.

It Starts with Curiosity

Incorporating STEM activities into your child’s daily routine can be both fun and educational. These activities nurture a love for learning and provide a strong foundation for future academic success. At Three Trees Early Learning Centre, we believe in the importance of early STEM education and strive to create an engaging and stimulating environment for all our young learners. By encouraging curiosity and exploration, we help children develop the skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.