Most parents have at least heard the word “STEM.” Perhaps they even know it stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. However, beyond that, most parents don’t know much about STEM. At Step by Step School, we provide engaging after-school STEM programs that dive deep into each discipline, making learning enjoyable and impactful. Step by Step is a childcare provider in Hoboken that offers programs for infants through preschool and after-school programs for children up to age thirteen. We provide an after-school STEM program that takes the four disciplines mentioned above and combines them with hands-on activities to help complement your students’ school learning and allow them to explore other areas of learning. STEM programs promote acquiring many skills, including problem-solving, thinking creatively and critically, helping with decision-making and leadership opportunities, and more.
Benefits of Our STEM After-School Program
Allows for Experimentation
Experimenting in life allows for learning and discovery. Think of all the inventors who simply “tried” something, and it worked. Penicillin, the X-ray machine, champagne, and the microwave oven were all discovered accidentally. Giving children the chance to experiment teaches them that it’s okay not to know the outcome and to take risks. At our after-school STEM program, children can conduct experiments that yield unexpected results, sparking curiosity and encouraging them to approach challenges with an open mind. It also teaches them that all ideas are okay to try. Once children realize the value of experimentation, they will embrace it, using it in all areas of their lives, even at a personal level, to find what works for them.
Fosters Teamwork
Many STEM activities involve team projects. From working together on a science project to using technology to build robots, students are frequently asked to collaborate, a skill learned and perfected with years of practice. Our after-school program emphasizes collaborative learning through group challenges that require communication and cooperation, making teamwork an enjoyable experience for all. Working as a team also teaches children how to rely on their teammate’s strengths and to ask for help when needed. Teamwork teaches kids to listen to their teammates, consider their ideas, and offer advice that is not critical but helpful. Children will also discover that their projects often turn out better when done together rather than alone.
Use of Technology
Technology is an integral component of STEM. After all, technology is not going away, so it’s crucial that your child is exposed to and can use technology at an early age. In our after-school program, children can access the latest educational technologies, including coding software and robotics kits, providing hands-on experience that mirrors real-world applications. As soon as your child begins kindergarten, having computer skills will help them as they move through their academic career and life. 21st-century skills, such as critical thinking, collaboration, and citizenship, are packed into our after-school STEM program lessons at Step by Step. Reach out to our daycare center to learn more today.
Builds Confidence
In STEM, there is often no right or wrong answer, and students will usually fail to find a good validation of a hypothesis, or their experiment will go differently than planned. However, students will learn that making mistakes is part of the process, and you simply try again. Through guided reflection on these experiences, children learn resilience and perseverance, building confidence in their ability to tackle future challenges. This will teach your child resilience and perseverance, as well as confidence in what they are doing. These life skills are challenging to prepare, but they will stay with your child for life once learned.
Makes the Hard Subjects Fun
Many children struggle in the “hard” subjects at school, which include math, science, and engineering. Because they struggle, they tend not to like it, so many children choose alternative career paths outside of these areas. With a STEM after-school program, such as Step by Step in Hoboken, children will be exposed to seeing these subjects in real-world applications. Our program incorporates creative problem-solving challenges that make these subjects approachable and enjoyable for children of all skill levels. They will see that math and science are all around them. Building bridges incorporate engineering and math, and understanding probability helps children when playing games of chance with their friends. Step by Step works hard to integrate learning and fun in everything we do in our after-school program. Learn more by contacting us today.
CHOOSE STEP BY STEP SCHOOL TODAY
Step by Step offers Hoboken’s best daycare and after-school programs. We use the best curriculums, including STEM, to prepare your child for their academic career. Our approach integrates fun, interactive lessons that encourage a love for learning while equipping children with crucial skills for the future. Combined with our highly experienced teachers, your child will be imbued with a passion for learning.
Our after-school STEM program is perfect for children ages five to thirteen. We offer a modern classroom incorporating technology at every turn and many hands-on activities to grow your child. Additionally, our program encourages social development, allowing children to form friendships with peers with similar interests. Your child will have fun, develop social skills, make friends, and learn valuable life skills. If you are interested in our regular daycare programs for children from infants to preschool or our top-notch after-school program, contact us today!