Benefits of STEAM Education for Children
SMARTS STEAM Education
Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) learning is a holistic, interdisciplinary learning that hones critical thinking skills. The earlier children can have access to this kind of play-based experience with creative, hands-on applications of science, the better. STEAM lessons integrate subjects like math to solve actual problems, rather than teaching them in abstract isolation. This approach fosters engagement and inspires participation.
SMARTS Approach to STEAM Education
SMARTS knows how crucial STEAM subjects are in a technology-driven world. Our after-school and summer programs offer a holistic approach to STEAM curriculum, promoting critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and essential communication and social skills.
Math in Context
Project-based learning shows students the real applications of otherwise abstract concepts learned in math. What is the practical value of these numbers and symbols? STEAM activities make the connection between abstract math skills and real-world problems and develop computational thinking.
Engineering Design
Engineering activities reinforce the idea of cause and effect. Children test various ideas, predict how changes to one element will affect another, and build interesting items. In the process, they learn about engineering fields through hands-on projects, collaboration, evaluation, and informed decision-making.
Math in Context
Project-based learning shows students the real applications of otherwise abstract concepts learned in math. What is the practical value of these numbers and symbols? STEAM activities make the connection between abstract math skills and real-world problems and develop computational thinking.
Technology Skills
Daily, we come into contact with various forms of technological innovations, but how often do we grasp the mechanics behind these modern devices and systems? In STEAM, the 'T' stands for building robust technology skills. It delves into critical areas like digital literacy, which involves efficiently mastering the use and navigation of digital platforms. This method ensures that learners acquire essential skills from the ground up, through guided projects and access to technology, establishing a solid base for deeper exploration in the future.
Arts Integration
From movies to video games, popular culture thrives on the marriage between art and STEM subjects. Whether your child is 4 or 14, providing them with opportunities to use their imaginations and express themselves gives a creative outlet, enhances emotional intelligence, builds self-esteem, soft skills, and can lead to a career-making passion.
Why Choose SMARTS?
Goggles on, tools at the ready, this is experiential learning par excellence. The SMARTS' advantage in delivering STEAM education is apparent from the sounds emanating from our classrooms.
We develop our activities to cultivate wonder and be fun and challenging so they foster a love for learning and appeal to children with varying interests. We encourage our students to ask questions, and they take this growth mindset into their broader communities. Give your child the best start possible in the Lanham, Maryland area. Enroll them in one of our enrichment programs and watch them thrive.
Parents' Questions About STEAM FAQs
How Does STEAM Benefit My Child's Future?
STEAM enrichment activities teach essential transferable skills for today's world. Though thoughts of a job are a long way away for a 10-year-old, these in-demand skills are directly linked to today's job market. Grit, thinking outside the box, valuing different perspectives, and knowing how to command a robot are just some of the skills a SMARTS child walks away with.
What if My Child Isn't Good at Science or Math?
Our creative activities leave no one behind and help build confidence in subjects children may not normally gravitate toward. Plus, we have a stellar arts education program to balance your child's schedule and give them a holistic skills-learning experience.