The very essence of STEAM learning is its hands-on, projects-based approach to learning. The multidisciplinary nature is also widely regarded as more relatable and relevant to real-world applications of these subjects.
However, why stop at STEAM? In the true spirit of interdisciplinary learning, the potentials of STEAM learning can be maximised when explored in conjunction with yet other creative ways of learning, such as physical education. Many STEAM concepts lend themselves well to physical explorations, which help children better visualise and experience these ideas.
Apart from being a fresh approach to learning, this is something kinaesthetic learners will definitely appreciate. So, if you are looking for ways to put new spins on STEAM activities at home, why not try these ideas that combine PE with STEAM?
Present children with a problem to solve
Keep the gears in their heads as well as their physical bodies well-oiled with a problem-solving activity! STEAM activities don’t need to always be sit-down affairs. Instead, you can devise a challenge for your child that requires them to get moving.
One teacher on the internet documented a brilliant idea: Challenge children to make their own jumping rope! Through the activity, encourage the child to explore concepts like how the weight, length, and material affect the functions of the rope. This teaches the child scientific thinking, exploration, and problem-solving.
Explore STEAM concepts through exercise
If you’ve ever learnt anything to do with forces, momentum, and kinetic energy, you’ll agree that visualising it with real-life examples is the best way to learn. So why not use the next exercise session at the park as a golden opportunity to have your child think about these concepts?
Bring a ball along and have your child explore what happens in different scenarios. For example, how does the speed of the ball change when you release it from the top of the slide? What does the trajectory of the ball look like when you shoot it into a hoop? By asking lots of questions and experimenting for themselves, children can take away a lot of valuable learning from a simple outdoor play session!
Get creative with motion mnemonics
What if there was an easier way to remember that math formula or scientific concept? Mnemonics are a great way to commit things to memory – and motion mnemonics are no different!
Shake up your child’s study routine by getting them to devise motion mnemonics for something they’re having trouble memorising. This adds some physical movement to their study session, while encouraging them to get creative. For example, you could challenge your child to invent a dance to remember math formulae.
Use tech to motivate and learn
Add a ‘cool’ factor to fitness activities by incorporating tech use! These days, fitness trackers are pretty common, whether as a wearable device or as a mobile app. Children will have fun seeing how exercise translates into numbers like the number of steps taken and heart rate.
Incorporate further learning and exploration by giving your child question prompts. For example, can they investigate how different exercises affect their heart rate? Or perhaps, they may wonder how the step counter tracks their steps – can they conduct an experiment and form a theory of how it works?
STEAM activities are many, but keeping things fresh sometimes requires fresh approaches as well. Combining STEAM learning with physical activities is one of those wonderful ways to do so!
In keeping in line with STEAM learning, don’t forget that your child’s school also plays a significant role. Look for a school with a comprehensive STEAM curriculum to ensure your child receives the advantages that the multidisciplinary learning approach has to offer.
Our School is known as one of the top international schools in Singapore, and it has a stellar STEAM programme that aligns with the IB programme syllabus. Through hands-on projects, plenty of STEAM after-school activities, and sophisticated facilities in their makerspaces, students can dive into STEAM learning easily.