If your child is poised to start Pre-K or kindergarten next year, you want to make sure that they thrive and see learning as fun. You can help them this summer by creating learning opportunities that can help them develop their STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) skills.

Here are some easy and fun STEAM activities that will help your toddler succeed next fall and beyond.

Paper, String, and Pencils (PSP) Activity

One of the hallmarks of any STEAM activity is blending skills. When children learn to use foundational skills like science, art, or math to solve problems, you know they're developing lifelong learning skills. However, when you unleash their power to blend their skills, they will optimize their learning potential.

1. Materials: this activity requires some sheets of loose-leaf paper, a few lengths of string (shoelaces work great), and a few pencils.
2. Objective: the goal of this activity is for your child to create as many items with these materials as possible. For instance, they might make a shelter for their toys by propping up the paper with the pencils. The key is to provide as little guidance as possible. You want your child to be creative. Once they create something, give them an opportunity to explain how it works.
3. STEAM Enrichment: although this project might seem like pure engineering, you can encourage your child to add an artistic element to the design or have them work on counting the items used to create their objects. You can modify this activity by adding additional household items. Food items, in particular, work well for this project.

Magnified Sketching

To spur scientific inquiry, you should encourage your child to explore the nature around them.

1. Materials: magnifying glass, pencil, paper, and a firm surface to sketch on.
2. Objective: walk with your child in your backyard or local park. As they walk, you should have them examine plants, insects, or other organic materials with their magnifying glass. After looking at something that perks their interest, they should stop and attempt to sketch the item. As they sketch, encourage them to capture the details they see when they look at the item with the magnifying glass.
3. STEAM enrichment: to further their exploration of nature's intricate details, you can have them compare and contrast the items they sketch. Asking them to articulate why the items might differ in size, shape, color, or detail can help them to see the engineering around them at all times.

For more information on childhood education options, contact a resource like the Small World Early Learning & Development Center