STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) skills are becoming increasingly important in today’s world, and introducing these concepts in early childhood can give children a head start in critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. At Papilio Early Learning, our Lifelong Learning Curriculum incorporates STEM in a way that’s engaging, age-appropriate, and fun. By using digital tools alongside traditional learning methods, we’re helping young learners develop foundational skills that will benefit them for years to come.
Why STEM and Digital Literacy Matter for Young Learners
Research shows that early exposure to STEM can positively impact a child’s cognitive development, including improvements in problem-solving, memory, and attention. A study by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) found that young children naturally engage in STEM activities through play, and introducing STEM in a structured way enhances their learning. Early exposure also builds confidence and curiosity, helping children feel more prepared as they enter primary school.
How Papilio’s Lifelong Learning Curriculum Teaches STEM and Digital Literacy
At Papilio, our Lifelong Learning Curriculum uses digital tools to introduce STEM concepts in a way that’s both developmentally appropriate and aligned with young children’s natural curiosity. Here’s how we incorporate digital literacy and STEM in fun and meaningful ways:
1. MathSeeds: Building Early Numeracy Through Play
MathSeeds is a digital program designed for children aged 3-6 that makes learning math fun and interactive. Through a series of colourful games and challenges, children practice counting, pattern recognition, and basic addition and subtraction. By using digital games, children learn at their own pace while developing crucial early numeracy skills.
MathSeeds isn’t just about learning numbers; it’s about building a love for math. Studies have shown that children who engage in early math activities perform better in school later on, making MathSeeds an excellent tool for laying a strong foundation.
2. Reading Eggs: Developing Literacy and Logic
While Reading Eggs primarily focuses on literacy, it also supports STEM skills by encouraging logical thinking and problem-solving. Through engaging, interactive games, children practice sequencing, pattern recognition, and critical thinking - all essential for both literacy and STEM learning. For example, exercises that involve sequencing or identifying patterns help children understand logical progressions, a foundational concept in coding and engineering.
Reading Eggs combines digital learning with reading, building children’s ability to approach tasks systematically while developing essential language skills.
Families with children enrolled in our School Readiness program receive full access to the MathSeeds and Reading Eggs programs (valued at $250) at no additional charge. Speak to your Centre Manager for details.
3. Early Years Toolbox: Strengthening Cognitive Skills
The Early Years Toolbox is a research-backed tool used to develop cognitive skills in young children. It includes a range of games and activities designed to improve attention, memory, and executive function, which are vital for successful STEM learning. Through interactive, age-appropriate exercises, children learn to focus, follow instructions, and solve problems.
Studies from the Australian Institute of Family Studies show that children with strong cognitive skills in early childhood tend to do better academically. By incorporating the Early Years Toolbox into our curriculum, we’re supporting children’s cognitive growth and preparing them for more advanced STEM learning as they grow.
Read more: Why the Lifelong Learning Curriculum Is the Best Choice for Your Child’s Early Education
Fun, Age-Appropriate STEM Activities and Tools for Young Learners
To make STEM fun and engaging for children under 5, we recommend age-appropriate tools and activities that introduce basic concepts in a playful way. Here are some excellent options available in Australia:
1. Coding Toys: Bee-Bot and Cubetto
Introducing coding concepts to young children can be easy and fun with toys like Bee-Bot and Cubetto.
- Bee-Bot: A simple, colourful robot that children can program using directional buttons. By programming Bee-Bot to move in different directions, children learn sequencing and basic coding skills.
- Cubetto: A wooden robot that teaches coding through a tactile, screen-free experience. Children place coding blocks to guide Cubetto along paths, introducing logic and sequencing in a hands-on way.
Both Bee-Bot and Cubetto help young children understand cause and effect, planning, and logic, providing a fantastic introduction to coding without screen time.
2. Digital Puzzles and Problem-Solving Apps: Osmo Little Genius Starter Kit
Osmo is a unique, hands-on learning system that combines digital interaction with physical play, making it ideal for introducing young children to STEM concepts. The Osmo Little Genius Starter Kit includes various games that teach shapes, colours, and spatial reasoning, all while enhancing early digital literacy.
- Tangram game: Encourages children to solve puzzles using physical shapes that interact with the digital screen.
- Number and letter games: Introduce basic math and literacy skills, helping children develop numeracy and literacy alongside problem-solving abilities.
Osmo is engaging and educational, making it a favorite for young learners and an excellent way to build early STEM skills.
3. Hands-On Science Apps: DIY.org and Toca Lab
For children interested in exploring the world around them, apps like DIY.org and Toca Lab provide age-appropriate science activities.
- DIY.org: An app that offers thousands of projects in science, art, and engineering. Children can choose from simple activities like building mini volcanoes or learning about plant life, all guided by fun, easy-to-follow videos.
- Toca Lab: An interactive app where children can experiment with elements, mixing them to create new reactions. This app introduces early scientific concepts like cause and effect and encourages curiosity about chemistry.
Both apps are available in Australia and provide a safe, interactive way for young children to engage in science.
FAQ: Introducing STEM Concepts Through Digital Literacy
Start with age-appropriate tools and activities, like MathSeeds, coding toys, and interactive puzzles, to build foundational skills.
Bee-Bot and Cubetto are excellent coding toys for preschoolers that introduce basic sequencing and logic.
Digital literacy prepares children to understand and safely interact with technology, building problem-solving and critical thinking skills essential for STEM learning.
Tips for Parents: Supporting STEM Learning at Home
Parents can play an active role in supporting early STEM learning at home. Here are some tips to make the most of digital tools and activities:
- Choose educational apps and toys: Look for digital tools and toys specifically designed for STEM learning, focusing on math, problem-solving, or science.
- Balance screen time: While digital learning is valuable, balance it with hands-on activities like building blocks, puzzles, or outdoor exploration to reinforce STEM skills.
- Encourage curiosity: Ask open-ended questions like “What do you think will happen if…?” to encourage critical thinking and experimentation.
Building Digital Literacy and STEM Skills
STEM concepts don’t have to be complicated to be impactful. At Papilio Early Learning, we’re committed to providing young learners with the tools and experiences they need to build early digital literacy and STEM skills. Through programs like MathSeeds, Reading Eggs, and the Early Years Toolbox, as well as recommended toys and activities, we’re laying a foundation for curiosity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.
Ready to see how our Lifelong Learning Curriculum introduces STEM and digital literacy for young learners? Find your nearest Papilio and book a tour today!