Welcome to The Big STEM Class all about embedding STEM into early childhood education. In this class, we will explore how integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) into early learning experiences can profoundly impact young children's development. By introducing STEM concepts at an early age, we can foster a lifelong love of learning, encourage natural curiosity, and build a solid foundation for future academic success. We will delve into the cognitive, social, and emotional benefits of STEM education, examining how it enhances critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity. Additionally, we'll discuss practical strategies for incorporating STEM activities into everyday learning environments, ensuring that children are engaged and inspired. Moreover, we will explore the science of motivation and how understanding what drives young learners can significantly improve their engagement and enthusiasm for STEM subjects. We'll also delve into the principles of inquiry-based learning, where children learn by asking questions, investigating, and discovering answers, thereby making the learning process more dynamic and effective. Join us as we uncover the transformative power of STEM education in shaping young minds and preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Whether you're an educator, parent, or simply interested in early childhood development, this class will provide valuable insights and tools to support the growth and learning of young children through the wonders of STEM and the science of motivation.
1. The Benefits of STEM In Early Childhood
16:06Lesson 1 is all about gaining an understanding for the foundations of STEM. In this first lesson you'll explore how young minds develop critical thinking, creativity, and confidence through inquiry-based and hands-on activities. Supported by modern neuroscience you'll learn the importance of STEM in helping children enhance problem-solving skills, build resilience through trial and error, and enjoy collaborative learning to improve teamwork and communication. Interdisciplinary activities and play integrate various subjects, fostering cognitive flexibility and real-world application, preparing children for future academic and personal success.
2. The Science Of Motivation
14:01In early childhood, motivation is shaped by how the brain uses past experiences to predict future outcomes. The brain continuously updates its expectations based on feedback from goals, actions, and internal body signals. This process, known as predictive coding, helps children reduce uncertainty and feel more confident in their abilities. By learning from both successes and failures, children refine their strategies and stay motivated. In this lesson you'll explore how creating a supportive environment with clear goals, positive feedback, and opportunities for exploration helps enhance these predictive processes, fostering motivation and effective learning in young children.
3. Inquiry Based Learning
13:41This lessons aims to equip early years educators with a comprehensive understanding of inquiry-based learning and its integration with STEM education. Participants will explore the principles of inquiry-based learning, emphasising the importance of fostering curiosity and critical thinking in young children. The class will demonstrate practical strategies for incorporating STEM concepts into everyday activities, balancing children's interests with the introduction of new and novel experiences. By the end of the session, educators will have the tools and confidence to create a dynamic, engaging learning environment that encourages exploration and discovery in early childhood education.
4. A Deep Dive Into Science
14:04First up is Science, in this lesson you'll explore how early years educators can incorporate scientific concepts into their planning and environments. We'll discuss simple, hands-on experiments and nature-based activities that ignite children's curiosity about the world around them. Learn how to create a science-rich environment that encourages exploration and inquiry, fostering a love for discovery and critical thinking.
5. A Deep Dive Into Technology
04:38In this lesson, we will focus on integrating technology into early childhood education. Discover age-appropriate technological tools and resources that can enhance learning and play. Early childhood isn't about mastering apps and computers but utilising technology to help widen children's understanding of the world around them is a vital components of day to day education.
6. A Deep Dive Into Engineering
06:22This lesson delves into the world of engineering for young learners. Learn how to incorporate building, designing, and constructing activities into your curriculum. We'll discuss the importance of open-ended play with blocks, recycled materials, and simple machines, and how these activities help develop spatial awareness, creativity, and collaborative skills among children.
7. A Deep Dive Into Maths
09:08In this lesson, we will explore strategies for embedding mathematical concepts into early childhood education. From counting and sorting activities to pattern recognition and basic geometry, discover how to make math fun and accessible through play. We'll discuss creating math-rich environments and activities that promote numeracy skills and logical thinking, laying a strong foundation for future learning. Maths interventions out, and play in!
As an owner of multiple settings across the United Kingdom, I truly understand the difficult challenges our industry and the people within it face on a daily basis. Which is why I'm so resolute in providing change for our industry through a platform that offers meaningful and accessible learning, to not only improve practice and children's outcomes, but also to provide the incredible people within our community with a meaningful voice to share their work and passion.
We signed up to The Early Years Network after loosing confidence in our child's previous setting and wanted to gain a better understanding around early years development and how our child should be learning. To say The Early Years Network completely changed our outlook of early years is putting it lightly! We'd highly recommend any new parents to sign up and take an active role in their child's learning during the early years period.
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The Early Years Network is all about meaningful learning that will transform the way you interact with and educate young children, not attempting to fill your head with information for the sake of a quick superficial quiz.
Unfortunately for the time being videos are only available in English, but maybe one day...
YES! Content on The Early Years Network has been created for people interested in early years regardless of age, experience or academic background. We have something for everyone whether you are a childminder, parent/carer or an early years professional.
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Whilst The Early Years Network is not an accredited body we do offer skill-based learning helping people transform knowledge and theory into meaningful change and improvement to their practice, environments and curriculum. Our Network Courses are created and hosted by leading experts within their academic fields, and upon completion of each course learners will be provided with a certificate to evidence their achievement.
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We are a learning and development platform dedicated to the magical world of early years! We cover a wide range of topics, from child brain development to the importance of safeguarding and child wellbeing, through high-quality and immersive video content.
We cover everything Early Years from ‘Cognitive Development Theories’, to the science behind play and even how to build the best rocket ship out of cardboard (you won't want to miss that video!). If you can think of a topic in early years we've probably got a video on it!
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