Why Your “Junk” Draw or Craft Closet is a STEM Jackpot

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Last week, I shared several ideas about digital literacy and it’s a topic I will continue to revisit, but this week I want to return to where it all starts: The power of physical play.

During tea time this morning, an article from The Conversation was in my feed and caught my attention. The main idea was about how everyday objects, those things researchers call "Loose Parts", are actually secret weapons for building STEM skills (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Being the crafter here, I’d say throw in some paint or yarn and let’s go full STEAM!

Bottom line:

When a child plays with a high-tech toy that has a "fixed" purpose (press a button, get a light), the toy does the thinking. But when you give a child a cardboard tube, a handful of rubber bands, and some plastic containers, they become the engineer.

According to the research, this kind of play builds:

Spatial Reasoning: Figuring out how shapes fit and balance.
Hypothesis Testing: "If I tape this here, will it hold the weight?"
Persistence: Learning that "failure" is just a data point for the next attempt.

The Connected Through Play Challenge:

Before you buy that next "educational" kit, look at your junk drawer. The article suggests that trusting children to experiment with the "ambiguity" of everyday objects is what actually prepares them for future-ready problem solving. Of course, if you are searching for some great educational kits that focus on STEM and creativity, as your friendly Discovery Toys advisor, I’m always happy to answer questions.

Here’s the full article: https://theconversation.com/how-childrens-play-with-everyday-objects-can-encourage-skills-needed-for-stem-success-274274

Here’s my question for you, what’s been your experience either as a child, a parent/grandparent or both. Did you prefer DIY or kits? What about the children in your life? Let’s share ideas.

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