STEM: Ask ‘What’ Not ‘Why’

Early educators who encourage children to explore the natural world provide their students with an important foundation for learning about STEM – that is, science, technology, engineering and math. One way to do this in the preschool classroom is through collections and exhibitions. Inspired by Museums-Both Outside and Inside the Classroom, suggests that collecting and displaying objects according to a theme reinforces learning. 

The STEM Sprouts Teaching Guide from the Boston Children’s Museum offers more details on incorporating STEM in preschool. Although children seem to love to ask “Why?” questions, the guide suggests directing their attention to “What” questions, such as “What did you notice?” and “What happened?” These questions allow children to be the experts, and encourage them to observe and communicate about their experiences.