STEM

TJ and Pals' core educational philosophy is learn as you play. This approach is designed around a research based, integrated curriculum which includes literacy, math, social skills and emotional development. It is specifically designed to develop STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) skills in children ages 3 to 6 in a fun and exciting way. At this age, STEM means teaching critical thinking, logic and problem solving, and encouraging self-directed learning. By focusing on these skills we will be strengthening the ability of children to progress across the entire curriculum.

What are STEM skills?

STEM refers to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. The STEM skills are the basis of children's ability to observe and learn from the world around them. STEM skills include critical thinking, logic, problem solving, creativity and self-directed inquiry.

Why are they important?

These important cognitive skills empower children to develop inquiry skills such as asking questions, observing experiments and drawing conclusions. Better thinking habits lead to better learning across the curriculum and effectively prepare children to move on to elementary school. Children need to build an understanding of the value of exploration and inquiry at an early age and develop an appreciation for learning. They need to be inspired.

Among developed countries, the United States ranks 31st in math and 23rd in science and fewer students every year choose to study the sciences in college. The skills derived from a STEM education are the mission-critical elements of the jobs of tomorrow and are essential to succeeding in an increasingly global world based on technology and innovation.

Why teach them to preschoolers?

Questioning and experimentation are natural ways that young children learn about the world. STEM skills are a natural outgrowth of this drive, but they do need to be nurtured in order to develop. Children's attitudes towards learning different subjects are shaped at this age, and it is important to instill a love of exploration as early as possible. Focusing on these skills gives children a solid foundation for learning before they go to elementary school.