At Little Scholars, we believe that the magic of science starts early – and for good reason. From bubbling volcanoes to magnetic wonders and curious critters, science sparks a unique kind of joy in children: the joy of discovery.
But beyond the “oohs” and “aahs,” there is a deeper purpose behind these moments. Science isn’t just fun; it’s foundational.
Why STEM Education for Early Childhood Matters
STEM – short for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics – is more than a buzzword. It’s a gateway to essential skills that prepare children for a fast-changing world. Here’s why STEM education for early childhood is crucial:
- Builds Critical Thinking:
Science encourages children to ask questions, make predictions, and test ideas. These are the early roots of problem-solving and logical thinking. - Encourages Curiosity & Confidence
STEM allows children to explore their world and understand how things work. When a child sees a balloon rocket zoom across a string or builds a bridge from blocks, they learn that they can investigate and influence their environment. - Supports Language and Communication
Talking about observations, explaining outcomes, and asking “why” are all part of science play. This boosts vocabulary and encourages collaborative learning. - Promotes Lifelong Learning
Early positive experiences with science can lead to a lasting interest in learning and experimentation. We believe it’s a great introduction to an important set of topics our kindy children will take with them into their primary school education.
How we do STEM at Little Scholars
We don’t save science for special occasions – it’s woven into everyday learning, and we enhance it further through our extracurricular program. Here’s how we bring STEM education to life:
Extra Curricular Program with Lab Kids
Did you know that Little Scholars offers an exciting STEM program for our kindergarten children? In collaboration with our friends at Lab Kids, we provide an incredible educational STEM program that aligns with the Early Years Learning Framework and the Australian National Curriculum. Through hands-on activities and age-appropriate scientific exploration, our Little Scholars explore topics like motion and states of matter, to learning about light, sound and chemical reactions.
Excursions and Events:
This August, Little Scholars are excited to host our biggest celebration of curiosity yet, our much-anticipated Little Scholars Science Fair! Children, parents, and curious souls in between from all 17 campuses across South East Queensland are coming together for a day jam-packed with serious fun.
Expect hands-on experiments, whizz-bang demonstrations, and STEM games and challenges (your little scholars won’t even realise they’re learning!) It’s science, play, and community all rolled into one unforgettable event.
Everyday Learning!
As part of our everyday curriculum, children are regularly invited to participate in science-based activities, such as:
- Exploring shadows and light
- Watching plants grow
- Observing weather changes
- Conducting sink or float experiments
- And much, much more!
Let's Nurture the Next Generation of Thinkers
Our role as early childhood educators is to lay the foundation for a lifetime of curiosity. By embracing STEM from the start, we’re not just teaching science – we’re raising confident, capable, and inquisitive young minds. To learn more about our extracurricular programs at Little Scholars or to book at tour at your local campus, call our team on 1800 732 926 visit https://mylittlescholars.com.au/book-a-tour/.
