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Encouraging Children to Enjoy STEM Subjects: Practical Strategies for Parents
A structured overview of what credible sources and parent perspectives commonly say about this topic.
Quick answer
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. To encourage enjoyment, parents can provide age-appropriate STEM activities, use educational games and apps, and foster a growth mindset by praising effort over innate ability. Options include hands-on kits, coding apps like ScratchJr, and family science experiments.
At a glance
Things to try now
What to do now
- 11. Identify your child's current interests and find STEM activities that connect to those interests.
- 22. Set aside regular time for playful STEM exploration, such as a weekly science experiment or building project.
- 33. Use open-ended questions like 'What do you think will happen if…?' to encourage curiosity and reasoning.
What to say
- “I love how you kept trying to figure that out! What do you want to try next?”
- “It's okay if it doesn't work the first time — that's how scientists learn!”
- “What do you notice about this? How could we test your idea?”
What to practice consistently
- Building a routine of hands-on STEM activities integrated with play.
- Modeling a growth mindset by praising effort and persistence in STEM tasks.
- Encouraging questions and exploration during everyday activities.
What to avoid
- Avoid pressuring the child to perform or achieve perfect results.
- Avoid focusing solely on right or wrong answers rather than the learning process.
- Avoid using STEM activities as a punishment or chore.
These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.
What this usually involves
- Providing hands-on activities such as simple experiments, building projects, or coding games
- Using educational tools and apps designed for children, like ScratchJr or LEGO Education kits
- Encouraging exploration and asking open-ended questions to stimulate curiosity
- Modeling enthusiasm for STEM topics by sharing your own interest and learning alongside your child
- Praising the process and effort rather than just correct answers to build a growth mindset
- Integrating STEM learning into everyday routines, such as cooking (measuring, chemistry) or nature walks (biology, observation)
Related questions
Praise effort and strategies rather than innate ability, encourage learning from mistakes, and model persistence.
Apps like ScratchJr for coding, Toca Lab for science exploration, and LEGO Education apps are popular choices.
Limit screen time to high-quality, interactive educational content and balance it with physical, hands-on activities and outdoor play.
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From around the web
How to Encourage Your Child's Interest in STEM
Tips for parents on fostering a love of science and math through everyday activities.
American Academy of Pediatrics
STEM Learning at Home
Resources and ideas for incorporating STEM learning into home routines.
Head Start / ECLKC
Supporting Your Child’s STEM Learning
Advice on encouraging STEM skills while supporting emotional development.
Child Mind Institute
Interactive STEM Activities for Kids
Examples of STEM activities that promote development and learning.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention