More and more educational systems are recognizing the value of STEM for our children and young adults. STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Studies show that by incorporating these concepts together into our curriculums we will raise a generation of problem solvers and critical thinkers.
Babies are not too young for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Just like your infant isn’t too young for reading, songs and play, they aren’t too young for STEM. By introducing your infant to these principles, you are setting a foundation for their future education.
How can you incorporate STEM into your baby’s everyday life? Babies are too young to do science experiments and flash cards but they are the perfect age for exploration and discovery. It shouldn’t feel like you are in a classroom with your baby. You will incorporate these conventions into everyday life.
Here are simple ways to build their brain and bond with your infant simultaneously:
• Incorporate numbers and shapes: Count their fingers while you are playing or their toes during a diaper change. While you are reading a book count the pages or pictures on the page. Find the triangles, circles, or squares on the page and count them. Or try, “here are six round circle banana slices for your lunch.”
• Introducing language: If you have the opportunity to have multiple languages spoken to and around your baby, do it! Research shows that bilingual children have greater mental flexibility which is not only beneficial in brain development but may be helpful in understanding math concepts and more.
• Cause and effect: When he drops his toy say, “Your toy fell down. I will pick it up.” Babies are naturally curious and will continue to experiment with actions and the results they bring whether it is a splat on the floor or a surprise from you. Our instinct is often to say “no” or “don’t,” but resist doing that if nothing is being harmed in the process.
• Descriptive language: Describe what you or the baby is doing. What they are seeing, smelling, hearing and feeling. “Here is your soft, blue blanket. I am putting it on top of you.” “We are going to go smell the flowers and listen to the birds.” “The birds are whistling. Do you hear their song?” Show your baby how to smell the flower “The flower smells sweet.”
• Spatial awareness: Simple games like peek-a-boo are perfect for this. Also, teaching your infant about near, far, under, over, etc. “You went under the table” “You have to reach far to get that toy.”
• Creating Patterns: Rainbow colored blocks or foods can be made into a pattern and you can also incorporate fun childhood songs like “Wheels on the Bus” or “Five little Monkeys” for this mathematical concept.
All of these ideas are just a starting point in incorporating STEM into your baby’s life. Notice there is nothing you need to buy or change in your daily routine. It is more about thinking out loud to your little scientist who is so eager to learn from you and their environment.
