For almost 10 years, Kinderberry Hill Child Development Center has incorporated science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) into its curriculum with the help of a partnership with Curious Minds. Now Kinderberry Hill has transitioned from STEM to STEAM. “By adding the arts, we are tapping into the natural creativity of children and increasing the overall interest in science and math,” says executive director Kathy Sjursen.
STEAM components are featured in every classroom element at Kinderberry Hill in Woodbury. One STEAM project involved planting grass and flower seeds. The children planted the seeds, learned about what plants need to grow, and tracked their daily growth. “The teachers also take teachable moments as they appear,” Sjursen says. “For example, if a worm was found out on the playground, the class would make a home for the worm, learn about the life cycle of worms and even learn about composting.”
STEAM changes not only how teachers think, but it also recognizes how children actually learn. Sjursen says, “After all, children are always so curious; they are natural-born scientists.”
